Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko
Trenton, New Jersey: Dr. Harsha Sahni, an Indian American rheumatologist, has been sentenced to 27 months in federal prison and has permanently lost her medical license after exploiting two undocumented Indian women as household servants.
The case highlights horrendous labor violations and ethical breaches in the medical profession.
Key Facts:
- Sahni sheltered two undocumented women and forced them to work up to 15-hour days for meager wages sent directly to their families in India.
- She misled authorities, filing false tax returns and coercing the women to claim they were her relatives visiting the U.S.
- The New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners revoked her license for exploiting the victims and defrauding charities, medical programs, and immigration authorities.
According to allegations, Sahni subjected one of the women to severe neglect, denying her medical treatment for a brain aneurysm until her symptoms threatened her ability to work.
Even after doctors recommended immediate surgery, Sahni allegedly forced the woman to leave the hospital and continue household chores.
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin called Sahni’s actions “a betrayal of her professional and ethical responsibilities.” Director of Consumer Affairs Cari Fais added, “Only the permanent revocation of her medical license could adequately protect New Jersey and its residents.”
The court sentenced Sahni in October 2024, ordering restitution of $728,327 and additional medical compensation of up to $200,000.
Sahni’s actions have drawn widespread condemnation, with calls for stricter oversight of labor practices involving domestic workers.