Sunil Mohan Patnaik Brahmapur

AnAccredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) worker from Gajapati district has alleged that she was socially ostracised, fined Rs 5,000 and threatened by members of her own community for providing healthcare services to a family belonging to another community while performing her official duties.

The incident has been reported from Jirang village under Rayagada block, where Sunandini Mishal has been serving as an ASHA worker. In a complaint submitted to the district police, she alleged that she has been facing harassment for providing medicines, injections and other basic healthcare services to a neighbouring family of a different community.

According to her, some villagers questioned her for visiting the family’s house, speaking to them and remaining in contact over the phone.

She alleged that a group of local residents, led by four persons, imposed a social boycott on her and fined her Rs 5,000.

Though the penalty was reportedly paid by her husband, the family continues to face social exclusion and has allegedly been barred from participating in religious and community activities.

Sunandini further alleged that she has also been threatened with losing her job. Claiming that no action was taken despite lodging a complaint with Rayagada police, she approached Gajapati SP Prahlad Sahai Meena seeking intervention. The SP has directed the SDPO to inquire into the allegations. Police said the matter is under investigation.