Bolangir: A 62-year-old woman died after being administered an incorrect injection by an unlicensed medical practitioner in Karlapita village under Muribahal police station limits in Bolangir district.
The deceased has been identified as Kaushalya Panika. According to reports, she was undergoing treatment for a skin infection at the clinic of Tunu Bagarti in Haladi village.
On Sunday, she visited a local medicine shop along with her granddaughter and was given an injection. She collapsed shortly afterwards and was declared dead. Family members rushed to the clinic, leading to a commotion at the spot. Witnesses said the practitioner immediately closed his clinic and fled from the area.
Allegations have surfaced that he offered the family Rs 1 lakh to hush up the matter. The woman’s body was reportedly cremated without a post-mortem examination.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage among locals, who have strongly criticised the authorities for failing to check the proliferation of illegal medical practices in rural areas. Media reports have also highlighted the rampant use of counterfeit medicines and unverified injections by unlicensed practitioners in the region.
On Tuesday, Bolangir Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) Dr. Pushpanjali Mishra ordered a detailed probe into the incident. Officials said the inquiry will focus on the type of injection administered and the exact circumstances leading to the death. Police have registered a case.
The CDMO has assured that a thorough investigation will be conducted and strict action will be taken against those found guilty.
