Jharkhand: 'Maiya Samman' Outrage As Woman Gives Birth Outside Hospital

The Hemant Soren administration in Jharkhand is actively promoting the 'Maiya Samman Yojana' as the year-end assembly elections approach. Chief Minister Hemant Soren describes it as a women's empowerment initiative. However, women in Jharkhand, particularly those who are poor, backward, or tribal, face significant challenges. The state's healthcare system is inadequate, forcing many to struggle for basic medical care.

Recently, a distressing incident highlighted these issues outside Ranchi's Sadar Hospital. A pregnant woman named Gulshan Khatoon was denied admission and had to give birth on the road. She was referred to RIMS due to delivery complications but couldn't get an ambulance. This incident occurred on 11th October and has sparked criticism of the state's healthcare system.

The incident has exposed the shortcomings of Jharkhand's healthcare services under Hemant Soren's government. Social media users have voiced their concerns about the lack of basic facilities at Ranchi Sadar Hospital. One user commented that if these issues were addressed, schemes like the Maiya Samman Yojana wouldn't be necessary.

Another user criticised the state of healthcare, highlighting that Dalits and tribals struggle to access treatment in hospitals. They shared an account of a woman who had to deliver her baby on the road after being refused admission. The incident has raised questions about the effectiveness of government schemes and healthcare policies.

In response to public outrage, the Hemant government has initiated an inquiry into the matter. Ranchi's Deputy Commissioner has formed a team to investigate and report on any negligence involved. While Gulshan Khatoon's condition is reportedly stable now, the incident could have had severe consequences.

The situation has intensified scrutiny on Hemant Soren's administration. Critics point out that while financial aid is provided under schemes like Maiya Yojana, women's safety and health remain neglected. The availability of ambulances and hospital services are also under question.

State of Healthcare Facilities

The condition of government hospitals in Jharkhand is alarming. Many lack basic amenities and cleanliness, forcing patients to wait amid unhygienic conditions. Medical equipment is often outdated, delaying treatment for critical patients. A recent case in Dhanbad saw a patient turned away due to inadequate equipment.

The shortage of medical staff further exacerbates these issues. Despite a population of approximately 4.06 crore, there are insufficient doctors and nurses in government hospitals. On average, there's only one doctor and three nurses per lakh population in Jharkhand.

Political Implications

The opposition BJP has seized upon these healthcare failures to criticise the Hemant government. They argue that announced schemes have not translated into tangible improvements at ground level. Local residents and health workers echo this sentiment, stressing the need for proper implementation.

With assembly elections approaching, there is pressure on Hemant Soren's administration to address these healthcare challenges effectively. Without concrete reforms, public dissatisfaction may impact electoral outcomes.