ASHA Workers’ Protest in Nabarangpur Leads to 3 Deaths

Three lives were lost in Nabarangpur district as the ASHA workers’ protest entered its fifth day, crippling rural healthcare services.

ASHA workers from across blocks gathered outside the District Collector’s office, demanding action against Dr. Sagarika Swain of Umerkote Hospital and pressing for other long-standing issues. Their strike halted essential health services in remote villages, leading to the deaths of two infants and one postpartum mother.

The deceased include a three-month-old baby from Ghanguda village and a six-month-old from Nuaguda, both suffering from pneumonia. A 27-year-old woman from Pakanaguda died during childbirth due to lack of timely medical intervention. Another child from Chikili remains in critical condition.

Despite mounting casualties, the district administration and health department have yet to take action against the accused doctor. Protesters demand her suspension and arrest, citing negligence. Daily sit-ins from 10 AM to 4 PM continue, with no resolution in sight.

District ASHA coordinator attempted negotiations, but talks failed. Leaders from Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh and ASHA Sangh, including Kabita Swain and Geetanjali Harijan, joined the protest. Block-level leaders also participated, warning of worsening conditions for pregnant women and newborns.

The ASHA workers protest in Nabarangpur has sparked public outcry, urging authorities to intervene before more lives are lost.