Motihari, Bihar: A disturbing case of alleged medical negligence has come to light in Motihari, East Champaran district, where a young woman died after doctors discovered a surgical scissor inside her abdomen nearly one and a half years after a delivery operation. The incident has triggered shock and anger among locals and raised serious questions about patient safety in private healthcare facilities.
The deceased has been identified as Usha Devi, aged 25, a resident of Jhajhra village in Bankatwa block. She was married to Manibhushan Kumar. According to her family, the surgical instrument was accidentally left inside her body during a cesarean delivery performed in mid 2024 at a private clinic in Motihari.
Family members stated that Usha underwent a cesarean section at the clinic of Dr Sangeeta Kumari, where she gave birth to a baby girl. While the delivery appeared successful, Usha began experiencing persistent abdominal pain soon after returning home.
Initially, the pain was dismissed as normal post surgery discomfort. Over the next several months, however, her condition worsened. Despite repeated consultations and medication, the pain never subsided. Relatives said she struggled with daily activities and lived in constant discomfort for more than a year.
In late December 2025, Usha’s health deteriorated rapidly. She was taken to another private hospital in Motihari, where doctors ordered an MRI scan after observing severe symptoms. The scan revealed a metallic object inside her abdomen. Doctors later confirmed it to be a surgical scissor or forceps.
The family was informed that immediate surgery was required to remove the object. Usha was admitted to a private medical center and taken into surgery without delay.
Doctors managed to remove the surgical instrument during the operation. However, Usha developed complications during the procedure. She died on January 2, 2026, while undergoing treatment. Her sudden death devastated the family, who had hoped the surgery would finally end her suffering.
Relatives allege that the foreign object left inside her body for over 18 months caused irreversible damage and directly led to her death.
Following Usha’s death, her family submitted a written complaint at Motihari Nagar police station, accusing Dr Sangeeta Kumari of gross negligence. They demanded strict legal action and accountability for what they described as a preventable tragedy.
Station House Officer Rajiv Ranjan confirmed that the complaint has been received and is under preliminary review. Officials said further action will be taken after examining medical records and statements.
Dr Sangeeta Kumari has denied the allegations. She stated that the delivery was conducted through the uterus and questioned how a surgical instrument could remain inside the abdominal cavity. She maintained that standard surgical procedures were followed during the operation.
Health officials have indicated that a medical inquiry committee may be formed once a formal case is registered.
(Rh/ARC)
