A disturbing incident unfolded in Jharkhand’s Hazaribagh district when a nurse allegedly attempted suicide by consuming poison inside the premises of the Mahila (women’s) Police Station. The extreme step was reportedly taken in protest against what she described as prolonged inaction on her complaint of sexual abuse. The incident has raised serious concerns about the handling of sexual assault cases and the responsiveness of law enforcement authorities.
According to officials, the woman consumed poison inside the women’s police station on Tuesday, creating panic among the police personnel present at the time. She was immediately shifted to Sheikh Bhikhari Medical College Hospital, where doctors admitted her in critical condition. Medical authorities later confirmed that her condition stabilised after treatment and that she is now out of danger.
The survivor, who hails from Barkagaon, has accused Vikas Kumar Mehta, a fourth-year MBBS student at the same medical college hospital and a resident of Harli village, of sexually assaulting her on the false promise of marriage. In her formal complaint, she alleged that the first incident took place at Swarn Jayanti Park in Hazaribagh, followed by another assault in her native village.
Despite approaching the police and registering a complaint, the woman claimed that no effective or timely action was taken against the accused. She reportedly told officials that she had lost all hope of receiving justice, which ultimately pushed her to take such a drastic step. She also accused the in-charge of the Mahila Police Station of showing insensitivity towards her situation.
The woman further alleged that when she visited the police station on July 8 to seek help, she was told that such incidents “happen everywhere in parks” and was sent back without meaningful assistance. She said this response deeply shook her faith in the system and added to her emotional trauma.
Her family members have also made serious allegations, stating that the accused’s mother had initially approached them with a proposal for marriage. According to the family, the situation later deteriorated when demands for a substantial dowry were allegedly made, which further worsened the woman’s mental and emotional state.
Following the suicide attempt, senior police officials rushed to the spot. Among them were CCR DSP Manoj Kumar Singh, Mahila Police Station in-charge Vindhyavasini Sinha, and Sadar Police Station in-charge Subhash Singh. The presence of senior अधिकारियों underscored the gravity of the incident.
DSP Manoj Kumar Singh said that the case is being thoroughly investigated and that all allegations, including those related to police inaction, are being examined. He stated that a clear and detailed response would be issued once the investigation is completed.
The incident has sparked wider concern and debate over delays, apathy, and lack of sensitivity in handling complaints related to sexual assault, particularly when survivors seek help from institutions meant to protect them.
