Chaibasa. A coalition of women from West Singhbhum district has filed a formal grievance alleging a large‑scale financial swindle. They contend that they were drawn in by promises of start‑up capital, only to watch substantial sums disappear from their bank accounts without proper authorization.

Who lodged the complaint?

Sadhucharan Singh Kuntia, district secretary of an international human‑rights organization, submitted a written petition on Monday to the Deputy Commissioner and the Superintendent of Police. The filing calls for a high‑level inquiry and decisive action against anyone found responsible.

Geographical spread and victims

The petition lists women from Bada Rayekman in the Kumaradungi block, as well as residents of Parampancho and Narsanda villages that fall under the Muffasil police‑station’s jurisdiction.

Alleged perpetrators

According to the complaint, Rita Hembram and Rajendra Kumar Hembram of Andhari, Bada Rayekman, are identified as the main suspects. They are accused of approaching the women with assurances of financial aid to launch micro‑enterprises.

Sum allegedly siphoned

The grievance claims that a total of ₹12.57 lakh was withdrawn from the accounts of 14 beneficiaries across several banks and financial institutions. Highlighted transactions include:

  • ₹2.35 lakh from Nikita Hembram’s account
  • ₹1.90 lakh from Sunika Hembram’s account
  • ₹1.50 lakh from Suryamuni Maharana’s account
  • ₹1.20 lakh from Kuni Hembram’s account

In most cases the women received a token amount of merely ₹500, and several allege that they never got their bank passbooks back.

Pressure over supposed loans

The situation has escalated, with complainants reporting that the affected families are now being asked to repay loans allegedly tied to the withdrawn money. This has added a fresh layer of financial strain to households already reeling from the purported fraud.

Demand for investigation

The human‑rights group has urged district authorities and police to verify the transactions, probe the role of the named individuals, and ascertain whether any bank officials were complicit. It also seeks assistance in recovering the funds that were reportedly taken from the women’s accounts.

Next steps

The allegations remain unproven pending a formal inquiry. Officials are expected to scrutinise bank records, transaction logs, and any other evidence before drawing conclusions about culpability.