Reporter's Diary: When all eyes scanned health reporter for baby bump

Over 30 pairs of eyes scanned this reporter from head to toe,  trying to spot a non-existent bump as they waited restlessly in the queue hoping to get done with the scan and go home soon. Then, when this reporter was summoned and had to make her way from back of the queue to meet the doctor-in charge, it was apparent that the women did not take it kindly. 

Walking past them, she sensed several pairs of  eyes staring at her indignantly, all the more intimidating when she realised that they were still looking for the baby bump. After all, it was a centre frequented mostly only by expectant mothers and the absence of one added to their ire. One of them even asked, “How many months?” The reporter replied that she was there for some official work but  the women seemed unimpressed and more bothered about how she managed to get ahead of them in the queue. 

After a 10-minute meeting with the doctor, when it was time to exit the centre, there was no other way, except braving the line of angry women, who were yet again scanning for a baby bump. — Janani Sampath, Chennai