Chaibasa. Four women from the West Singhbhum district have filed a formal complaint alleging a large‑scale financial fraud. They contend that they were approached with assurances of start‑up assistance, only to watch sizable sums disappear 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 grievance on Monday to the Deputy Commissioner and the Superintendent of Police. The petition calls for a high‑level inquiry and decisive action against any parties found responsible.

Geographic scope and victims

The filing 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 jurisdiction.

Individuals identified as suspects

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

Amount allegedly siphoned

The grievance alleges that a total of ₹12.57 lakh was withdrawn from the accounts of 14 beneficiaries across several banks and financial institutions.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 instances, the women received a token amount of only ₹500, and several complain that they never got their bank passbooks back.

Pressure over alleged loans

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with the complainants reporting that the affected families are now being asked to repay loans supposedly linked to the withdrawn funds.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

Demand for investigation

The human‑rights body has urged the district administration 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 taken from the women’s accounts.

What lies ahead?

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