COLONIA, New Jersey — Dr. Harsha Sahni, a former Indian-American rheumatologist, has been sentenced to 27 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to charges of conspiring to conceal and harbor undocumented immigrants and filing a false tax return. Sahni’s case has sent shockwaves through the medical community, leading to the permanent revocation of her medical license.
The charges stemmed from Sahni’s exploitation of two Indian women whom she coerced into working as household help under deplorable conditions. The women, identified in court documents as Victim 1 and Victim 2, were paid far below the legal wage—only $240 to $600 a month—and forced to send their earnings to their families in India. Sahni concealed their labor on her tax returns, avoiding taxes owed from their employment.
As part of the conspiracy, Sahni directed the women to lie to immigration authorities, claiming to be family members on tourist visas. She further threatened the women with arrest and deportation to keep them from reporting their situation. Sahni’s actions were not only a blatant violation of the law but also a betrayal of the trust placed in her as a healthcare provider.
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin described the case as a breach of medical ethics, stating that Sahni had abandoned her duty to care and protect in favor of exploiting vulnerable individuals. The case serves as a reminder of the immense responsibility that comes with being a healthcare professional, and the permanent revocation of Sahni’s medical license ensures that New Jersey residents are safeguarded from further harm.
The two women, who endured unimaginable hardships, are now one step closer to justice. As Sahni begins her prison sentence, this case highlights the critical importance of accountability in protecting human dignity and trust in the medical profession.
