A private manpower agency based in Bihar, M/s Samanta Security – Intelligence Service Pvt. Ltd., is facing multiple allegations of irregularities in Jharkhand, casting doubt over its continued operations at various government-run health facilities.
The agency, which provides paramedical and support staff to several institutions across the state, recently had a tender revoked in Gumla district following an inquiry ordered by the health department.
According to sources, the agency was awarded the contract despite not meeting several key eligibility criteria—raising questions about the fairness of the selection process. The decision to cancel the tender came after an investigation committee found merit in the complaints.
Further, Birsa Agriculture University (BAU) has officially barred the company from operations through a letter dated 31 May 2025, citing financial irregularities, non-payment of salaries, and dereliction of duties.
Despite mounting accusations, the agency continues to operate in several facilities, including Sadar Hospital, referral hospitals and various primary and community health centres in Ranchi. It also maintains a presence at the Ranchi Institute of Neuro-Psychiatry & Allied Sciences (RINPAS) and in Garhwa district.
Sources familiar with the developments claim that the company was initially awarded a one-year work order at Sadar Hospital in 2022. However, its contract has since been extended multiple times without fresh tenders. “The company was wrongfully allotted the tender for Sadar Hospital,” a person close to the matter alleged on condition of anonymity. “It failed to meet at least five of the requirements listed in the tender. Moreover, there have been serious allegations against the agency, including delayed salaries, non-payment of provident funds, and taking bribes for recruitment.”
Responding to the developments, Ajoy Kumar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary of the Health, Medical Education & Family Welfare Department, said, “We have received a complaint regarding the agency and have asked the concerned civil surgeons to submit a report. Once we receive their response, we will determine the next steps. If necessary, a higher-level committee will be constituted to further investigate the matter.”
The ongoing controversy has raised fresh concerns over transparency and accountability in the outsourcing of services in Jharkhand's public health sector.