The Jharkhand High Court has observed that transfusion of HIV-infected blood to several minor children has jeopardized their future, and directed the State to place on record details of the investigation being carried out in the matter.

A Single Judge Bench of Justice Rongon Mukhopadhyay was hearing a writ petition seeking direction for registration of an FIR on the basis of a complaint alleging transfusion of HIV-infected blood to minor petitioners at the Blood Bank of Chaibasa Sadar Hospital.

The petitioners had approached the High Court alleging that HIV-infected blood had been transfused to minor thalassemia patients at the hospital blood bank, and sought criminal action against those responsible. Pursuant to earlier directions of the Court, an FIR had already been registered in connection with the allegations.

However, the Court observed that mere registration of FIR did not conclude the matter, particularly considering the grave nature of the allegations and the impact on the affected children. The Court held:

“Though, by registering a First Information Report, primary grievance of the petitioners seems to have been redressed by the concerned respondents but considering the gravity of the offence when several young children have been infused with HIV infected blood thus, jeopardizing their future it would be necessary to ensure that the persons who are responsible for such criminal act needs to be brought to justice.”

The Court further took note of the fact that despite filing of a counter affidavit, the State had failed to provide adequate details regarding progress of investigation, and even the State counsel was unaware of the present status of the probe.

Accordingly, emphasising the seriousness of the allegations, the Court directed the State to file a supplementary affidavit detailing the investigation carried out thus far.

The matter has been directed to be listed on 21.04.2026.

Case Title: Deepika Hembram and Others v. State of Jharkhand and Ors.

Case No.: W.P.(Cr.) No. 50 of 2026.

Appearance: Md. Shadab Ansari appeared for the Petitioners. Mr. Anil Kr. Singh appeared for the Respondent.

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