Shocking Arrest in Berhampur: Fake Doctor Accused of Sexual Abuse

In a shocking incident in Berhampur, Odisha, police have arrested a self-proclaimed homeopathy doctor accused of sexually assaulting a minor girl. The suspect allegedly lured the victim's family with promises of free education and accommodation for a nursing degree. Alongside him, two female accomplices were also detained. Investigations suggest that the main accused may not even hold a valid medical degree. This disturbing case has raised serious concerns about the safety of vulnerable individuals seeking educational opportunities. Read on for more details about this alarming situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 24, 2025, 22:11 IST

Police Action Against Alleged Abuser

Berhampur: Authorities in Berhampur, Odisha, apprehended a self-proclaimed homeopathy practitioner on Tuesday, accused of sexually assaulting a minor girl under the guise of helping her secure a BSc nursing degree along with free education and housing, according to police reports.

In addition, two female accomplices of the suspect were also taken into custody for their involvement in the crime.

The individuals arrested include Bhabani Sankar Das (47), a resident of Niranjan Nagar, Priyanka Sahu (21) from VIP Colony, and a 50-year-old anganwadi worker.

Bhabani Sankar operates a clinic named 'Bajpayee Arogyadam' located at Raja Rani Apartments near Courtpeta Chowk, while Priyanka serves as a receptionist there.

Investigations revealed that the victim's mother, a 17-year-old girl, was introduced to Bhabani Sankar through the anganwadi worker just days prior.

The anganwadi worker informed the victim's mother about Bhabani Sankar's reputation for offering free education and accommodation to underprivileged girls and women.

Trusting her words, the victim, along with her mother and sister, visited Bajpayee Arogyadam three days ago to meet Bhabani Sankar.

"He assured the family that he would facilitate the girl's BSc Nursing degree and provide her with free education and lodging. Believing him, the family consented to let the victim stay at a place he recommended," a police official stated.

On June 23, the victim arrived at the Raja Rani Complex with her aunt and cousin to join Bajpayee Arogyadam.

After her relatives departed, the accused doctor led the girl to a different room in the same building, where his assistant Priyanka offered her water.

"After consuming the water, the victim felt faint but was still aware of her surroundings. Despite her pleas, Bhabani Sankar took her to the bedroom and assaulted her," the police official added.

Following a complaint from the victim's aunt, law enforcement registered a case under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the POCSO Act, leading to the arrest of the three suspects.

Preliminary investigations suggest that Bhabani Sankar may not possess a legitimate homeopathy degree, prompting further inquiries into his qualifications.