Chaibasa. A cluster of women from West Singhbhum district has filed a formal grievance alleging a large‑scale financial swindle. They contend that they were lured with promises of start‑up support, only to watch sizable sums disappear from their bank accounts without explicit authorization.

Who lodged the grievance?

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

Geographical scope and victims

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

Accused parties

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

Amount allegedly siphoned

The complaint asserts that a total of ₹12.57 lakh was withdrawn from the accounts of 14 beneficiaries across several banks and financial institutions.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 debited from Nikita Hembram’s account
  • ₹1.90 lakh debited from Sunika Hembram’s account
  • ₹1.50 lakh debited from Suryamuni Maharana’s account
  • ₹1.20 lakh debited from Kuni Hembram’s account

In most instances, the women received a token amount of only ₹500, and several claim 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with complainants reporting that the affected families are now being asked to repay loans supposedly linked to the withdrawn money. This has added further financial strain to households already grappling with the alleged fraud.

Demand for investigation

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

Next steps

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