Jharkhand: Renowned Octogenarian Obstetrician Dr. Shobha Chakraborty Passes Away

Dr. Shobha Chakraborty, one of Ranchi’s most esteemed obstetrician-gynaecologists, passed away on June 4, 2025, at the age of 85. Her passing has left a deep void in the medical community across Jharkhand and Bihar.

Dr. Chakraborty earned her MBBS and MD in Obstetrics and Gynecology and went on to serve thousands of patients during her decades-long medical career. She became a household name in Jharkhand through her work at Hill View Hospital and Research Center, as well as in her own private clinic.

Even after experiencing a heart attack around seven years ago, she returned to treating patients with her characteristic dedication. She resumed consultations in her private chamber shortly after recovering at Medica Hospital. Her colleagues and patients often noted her extraordinary commitment, which remained unshaken even in later years of her life.

During her career, Dr. Chakraborty mentioned that meeting patients gave her immense joy.

Architect of Medical Leadership in Jharkhand

Dr. Shobha Chakraborty held a pivotal position in shaping organized medical practice in the newly formed state of Jharkhand. She was unanimously chosen as the first president of the Jharkhand chapter of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) during its maiden elections in 2007. Dr R. C. Jha was elected as secretary alongside her. This leadership duo played an instrumental role in laying down the foundational structure of the IMA in the state.

Her tenure, which continued until 2009, focused on building a coordinated professional network for doctors and establishing ethical and clinical standards. After her term concluded, Dr A. K. Chatterjee from Deoghar and Dr. Shekhar Choudhary Kajal assumed the roles of president and secretary for the 2009 to 2011 term.

A Mentor and Voice of the Profession

Her impact extended beyond the IMA. In 2008, she was requested by the then Health Minister, Bhanu Pratap Shahi, to represent Jharkhand in the Medical Council of India (MCI).

Dr. Ajoy Kumar Singh noted in a recent tribute that her passing marks the close of a defining chapter in the medical history of Jharkhand. According to him, she was not only a cornerstone of the IMA but also deeply engaged in shaping medical education and governance in the region.

A Teacher of Teachers

Dr. Shobha Chakraborty was affectionately referred to as a "teacher of teachers." Many in the medical fraternity remember her as a mentor who trained and inspired generations of doctors. Her students, who are now educators and senior practitioners themselves, often speak of her discipline, clarity, and concern for clinical ethics.

Dr. Swarupa Mitra, Director and Unit Head at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, New Delhi, shared a heartfelt tribute to Dr Shobha Chakraborty. Recalling her student days at RIMS (formerly RMCH) in Ranchi, she remembered how the young medical students had been forewarned about the strict yet brilliant Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Dr Chakraborty, dressed always in a white cotton saree with a green border, was known for her swift ward rounds, commanding voice, and uncompromising discipline.

Yet behind that formidable presence was a teacher of immense compassion and clarity. Her clinical acumen, surgical finesse, and classroom presence were unmatched. As Dr Mitra described, it was Dr Chakraborty who made obstetrics and gynaecology feel simple, accessible, and deeply human.

Final Days and Tributes

She had been ill for some time and was undergoing treatment at a hospital in Ranchi before her death. Former Union Minister Arjun Munda had recently visited her to enquire about her health.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren expressed sorrow over her death, describing it as a major loss to the medical field in Jharkhand. Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar also paid tribute, noting her service to public health and her contributions to the medical fraternity.

Numerous doctors and students have paid tribute to her, stating that her legacy as a dedicated professional and educator will live on in the hearts of medical practitioners across Ranchi and Jharkhand.