Attempt to sell newborn for Rs 2.6 lakh: Greater Noida hospital licence cancelled

Noida: Following an alleged child trafficking attempt, authorities in Uttar Pradesh have cancelled the licence of a private hospital in Bisrakh after its owner and two staff members were arrested for allegedly trying to sell a five-day-old baby girl for Rs 2.6 lakh. 

According to police and health department officials, a detailed investigation of hospital records is now underway. This includes examining delivery registers and other documents to trace the infant’s background and verify whether any records were manipulated. 

Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that a private hospital owner in Greater Noida is among three people arrested for allegedly attempting to sell a five-day-old baby girl for Rs 2.6 lakh, police said on Saturday night. Two other accused in the case are currently absconding.

Also Read:Greater Noida hospital owner among three arrested for attempting to sell newborn

Speaking to TOI, Deputy CMO Chandan Soni said the action followed a police report. “The hospital’s licence has been cancelled on the basis of police inputs. A three-member committee led by the CMO will examine all records, including delivery registers, to verify the identities of mothers and detect any manipulation. Its findings will be compiled as evidence and could be important in court,” he said.

Officials stated that the committee will scrutinise names, addresses, and other patient details to establish the identities of mothers and detect any irregularities or tampering in documentation.

The crackdown followed a police investigation triggered by a complaint from a local couple residing in Ace City. According to officials, the couple alerted child protection authorities after receiving a WhatsApp message claiming that a newborn girl was “available for adoption.” The message was allegedly circulated by a nurse employed at the hospital who also worked as a domestic helper in the residential society.

When the complainant’s wife contacted the number shared in the message, she was reportedly told that the baby could be handed over in exchange for Rs 2.6 lakh and was urged to make a quick decision. Acting swiftly, Childline officials, in coordination with the police, laid a trap to catch those involved.

At the designated meeting point, two hospital employees — an operation theatre technician and a cleaner arrived on a scooter carrying the newborn. Both were arrested on the spot.

During interrogation, the accused allegedly claimed they were acting on instructions from the hospital’s owner, who was subsequently arrested. The hospital owner reportedly told investigators that the baby’s mother had delivered the child at the hospital and was unwilling to raise her.

Police said efforts are underway to trace the absconding accused, while further investigation is in progress, reports PTI.

Meanwhile, the rescued infant has been admitted to Child PGI in Sector 30, where she is undergoing a comprehensive medical examination.

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