In a disturbing incident that has shocked Mumbai, five individuals have been booked by the Kurar police for allegedly attempting to sell an unmarried woman's newborn baby for ₹5 lakh. The crime came to light after a vigilant social activist alerted authorities, leading to immediate police action and the rescue of the infant.
The Shocking Discovery and Police Intervention
The case unfolded when activist Kamlesh Shinde received information about the planned sale of a newborn baby in the Kurar area of Malad (east). Acting swiftly on the tip-off, Shinde immediately contacted senior police inspector Satish Tai of Kurar police station, setting in motion a rescue operation that would expose a heartless child trafficking attempt.
According to police reports, the main accused identified as Rekha Kadam (40) had allegedly conspired with four others to sell the baby boy who was born to a 22-year-old unmarried woman. The young mother, who hails from a vulnerable economic background, had reportedly been persuaded to part with her child under false pretenses and financial pressure.
The Accused and Their Roles
Police have registered a case against five individuals under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act. Besides Rekha Kadam, the other accused have been identified as Sunil More, Sangeeta More, Sandeep Gupta, and one other accomplice. The accused had allegedly identified potential buyers and were negotiating the sale price when the police intervention occurred.
The transaction was reportedly set at ₹5 lakh, with the accused exploiting the mother's vulnerable situation as an unmarried woman facing social stigma and financial difficulties. Investigators revealed that the accused had been actively looking for prospective buyers and had already initiated discussions with several parties interested in purchasing the newborn.
Rescue Operation and Current Status
Following the activist's alert, the Kurar police team successfully rescued the newborn baby boy and ensured his safety. The infant has been placed under proper medical care and protection while authorities continue their investigation into the broader network potentially involved in such illegal activities.
The young mother is currently receiving necessary counseling and support as she deals with the traumatic experience. Police sources indicate that she was likely coerced into the arrangement due to her difficult circumstances as an unmarried mother facing social and economic challenges.
Senior police officials have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing to determine if the accused were part of a larger child trafficking ring operating in the Mumbai region. This incident has highlighted the persistent issue of illegal adoption practices and child trafficking that continue to plague vulnerable communities despite strict laws and enforcement measures.
Broader Implications and Public Response
This case has drawn attention to the critical importance of community vigilance and prompt police action in preventing child trafficking crimes. Activist Kamlesh Shinde's timely intervention proved crucial in preventing what could have been a tragic case of child exploitation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by unmarried mothers and their children in certain social contexts.
Child protection authorities have emphasized the need for greater awareness about legal adoption processes and support systems available to women in distress. Official adoption channels through recognized agencies remain the only legal method for adoption in India, and any attempts to bypass these procedures constitute criminal offenses.
The Mumbai police have assured the public that they are treating this case with utmost seriousness and are committed to ensuring that all involved parties face appropriate legal consequences. This incident marks another chapter in the ongoing battle against child trafficking and illegal adoption practices in urban centers where economic disparities often create opportunities for exploitation.
