Chaibasa. A coalition of women from West Singhbhum district has filed a formal grievance alleging a large‑scale financial fraud. They assert that they were attracted by promises of start‑up support, only to see substantial sums withdrawn from their bank accounts without clear authorization.

Who lodged the complaint?

Sadhucharan Singh Kuntia, the 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 any individuals found culpable.

Locations and victims

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

Alleged perpetrators

According to the complaint, Rita Hembram and Rajendra Kumar Hembram of Andhari, Bada Rayekman, are identified as the principal suspects. They are said to have approached the women with assurances of financial assistance to launch micro‑enterprises.

Money reportedly withdrawn

The grievance claims that a total of ₹12.57 lakh was siphoned from the accounts of fourteen 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 only ₹500, and several allege that they never got their bank passbooks back.

Pressure over alleged loans

The situation has escalated, with complainants reporting that the affected families are now being asked to repay loans purportedly linked to the withdrawn funds. This has added further financial strain to households already reeling from the alleged 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 determine whether any bank officials were complicit. It also seeks assistance in recovering the money that was allegedly taken from the women’s accounts.

Next steps

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