The death of a 35-year-old woman leads to the arrest of a nurse and her husband for operating an illegal abortion clinic in Dhubri.
New Delhi, India Jul 14, 2026 ALN: A tragic incident involving the death of a 35-year-old woman following an alleged unauthorized abortion has prompted Dhubri Police to uncover an illegal abortion clinic operating from a residential house. The police allege that the procedure was conducted by a nurse impersonating a qualified gynaecologist, raising serious concerns about the safety of medical practices in the area.
The accused, identified as Habiba Yasmin, is a nurse employed at Dhubri Medical College and Hospital (DMCH). Alongside her, her husband, Mostafizur Rahman, has also been arrested in connection with the case. The police have registered a case (Dhubri Police Station Case No. 262/2026) under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including serious charges related to medical malpractice and unauthorized medical practice.
The investigation was initiated following a First Information Report (FIR) lodged by Hazrat Ali, a resident of Jawpara Part-II under Gauripur Police Station. In his complaint, Ali alleged that his wife, Maleka Bibi, died after receiving treatment from a woman who falsely claimed to be a qualified gynaecologist.
In response to the complaint, the District Crime Team, in collaboration with Dhubri Police, conducted a raid on the residence where the illegal clinic was allegedly operating. During the raid, they seized various items, including medicines, medical instruments, and other materials believed to have been used to carry out illegal abortion procedures. This discovery has raised alarm about the prevalence of similar illegal practices in the region.
Preliminary investigations suggest that Yasmin had been impersonating a gynaecologist and conducting Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) procedures without the necessary qualifications or legal authorization. This poses significant risks to the health and safety of women seeking such medical procedures, especially in areas where access to qualified healthcare providers is limited.
According to the FIR, Hazrat Ali and his wife visited DMCH on June 7 after Maleka complained of severe abdominal pain. Upon entering the hospital premises, they were allegedly approached by a woman who claimed to know a reputed gynaecologist and persuaded them to accompany her to a house in Rowra Part-II for treatment. This deceptive tactic highlights the vulnerability of patients who may be desperate for medical assistance.
Ali recounted, "Upon entering the gate of DMCH, one lady approached us and asked about our problem. After hearing that my wife was suffering from stomach pain, she told us she knew a good lady gynaecologist and asked us to come with her." This manipulation of trust is a common tactic used by individuals operating illegal clinics, exploiting the desperation of patients in need of medical care.
Once at the house, Ali stated that another woman introduced herself as a gynaecologist and demanded a payment of Rs 8,000 for the treatment. "They asked for Rs 8,000, which I paid in cash. Thereafter, both the ladies took my wife inside for treatment, and she remained inside the house throughout the night. I spent the whole night waiting outside on the veranda," Ali reported, highlighting the lack of transparency and the unprofessional environment of the clinic.
According to the FIR, Maleka was discharged the following morning with a handwritten prescription slip. However, shortly after leaving the house, she began to experience severe abdominal pain and was unable to walk. "After coming out of the house, my wife started complaining of immense pain in her stomach and she was unable to walk. When I informed the lady doctor about her condition, she told me it would be alright after a few days," Ali stated, indicating the dismissive attitude of the accused towards the serious condition of the patient.
The situation worsened as Ali alleged that despite repeated attempts to contact the woman over the following days, he received no response. This lack of accountability is a common issue in cases involving illegal medical practices, as those operating outside the law often evade responsibility for the harm they cause.
The implications of this case extend beyond the immediate tragedy of Maleka Bibi's death. It raises critical questions about the regulation of medical practices in India, particularly in rural and underserved areas where access to qualified healthcare providers is limited. The existence of illegal clinics not only endangers the lives of patients but also undermines the integrity of the healthcare system.
In India, the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act allows for legal abortions under certain conditions, emphasizing the importance of qualified medical professionals in ensuring the safety of such procedures. The operation of illegal abortion clinics poses significant risks, including complications from unsafe procedures, lack of post-operative care, and potential legal ramifications for those involved.
This incident also highlights the need for increased public awareness regarding safe reproductive health practices and the importance of seeking medical assistance from licensed professionals. Educational initiatives aimed at informing the public about their rights and the dangers of illegal medical practices could help mitigate the risks faced by vulnerable populations.
Moreover, this case serves as a reminder for law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant in monitoring and regulating medical practices within their jurisdictions. Strengthening regulations and increasing penalties for those operating illegal clinics could serve as a deterrent against such practices, ultimately protecting the health and safety of the community.
As the investigation continues, the community is left grappling with the consequences of this tragic event. The loss of Maleka Bibi not only affects her family but also raises awareness about the broader issues of healthcare accessibility, safety, and the need for stringent oversight in the medical field. It is crucial for authorities to take decisive action to prevent similar incidents in the future and to ensure that all individuals have access to safe and legal medical care.
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