Kendrapara, Odisha: The district administration of Kendrapara has taken action against Snehalata Sahoo, the Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) for the Derabish block. On Wednesday, she was removed from her position following serious allegations of negligence that reportedly led to the tragic loss of an unborn child by Barsha Priyadarshini Mohapatra, a 26-year-old junior revenue assistant.
Incident Details
Barsha Mohapatra was seven months pregnant when she began experiencing severe labor pains on October 15 while at work. Despite her pleas for help, she claims that her requests for medical assistance were ignored by Sahoo and other officials in the department. Barsha stated that she repeatedly asked to be taken to the hospital but received no support.
7 month pregnant employee in Odisha lost her child as she was denied leave. pic.twitter.com/nwXjoQBmqC
— Hellobanker (@Hellobanker_in) October 31, 2024
After being neglected at work, Barsha’s family intervened and took her to a private hospital in Kendrapara. Unfortunately, an ultrasound revealed that the baby had died. Barsha attributes the loss of her unborn child to what she described as “gross negligence” and “mental harassment” from her superiors, particularly CDPO Sahoo. She subsequently filed a formal complaint with the district collector, demanding stringent action against Sahoo.
Official Response
Following the complaint, Collector Smrutiranjan Pradhan stated, “We took action against the CDPO based on Mohapatra’s plea for an impartial probe into the matter.” The district administration has established a three-member committee to investigate the allegations. This committee includes the Tehsildar of Derabish, the medical officer of the Community Health Center (CHC) in Derabish, and the District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO).
The collector emphasized, “Once we receive the inquiry report, we will determine further actions regarding the CDPO.”
Political Reaction
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida also addressed the situation on social media, announcing, “The district administration has removed Snehalata Sahoo for her gross negligence towards a seven-month-pregnant clerk who lost her baby. After we receive the inquiry report, the state government will take appropriate action.”
Investigation Underway
The Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Nilu Mohapatra confirmed that an investigation has been initiated. She noted, “The DSWO has been directed to conduct a thorough investigation and submit a report on the matter.” Meanwhile, DSWO Manorama Swain indicated that a committee will be established to examine the incident and ensure a prompt report is generated.
In a statement addressing the allegations, CDPO Snehalata Sahoo claimed she was unaware of Barsha’s distress on the day in question. This case has drawn significant attention and raises concerns about officials’ responsibilities in ensuring their employees’ welfare, particularly in critical situations such as pregnancy.
