Four Arrested in Udupi for Illegal Adoption and Child Trafficking
Four individuals, including a doctor, have been arrested in Udupi, Karnataka, for their alleged involvement in the illegal adoption and trafficking of a one-month-old baby girl. The arrests were made following a complaint filed by the Child Protection Officer, prompting the Women's Police Station to register a case under multiple legal provisions.
Case Registered Under BNS and Juvenile Justice Act
The case was registered under Sections 143(4), 61, 318(2) read with 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 81 of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act. These sections deal with punishment for trafficking, exploitation, and illegal adoption of minors. According to police sources, the baby girl was allegedly sold to a couple through an illegal network involving the accused.
Doctor Among Accused
One of the arrested individuals is a doctor, whose role in the trafficking ring is under investigation. Authorities suspect that the doctor may have facilitated the illegal adoption by providing medical clearance or falsifying documents. The other three accused are believed to be intermediaries who arranged the transaction. Police are probing whether the network extends to other districts or states.
Investigation and Next Steps
The Women's Police Station in Udupi is leading the investigation. The baby girl has been rescued and placed in a shelter home for care and protection. Police have stated that they will examine all evidence, including financial transactions and communication records, to identify other possible accomplices. The accused were produced before a local court and remanded to judicial custody. Further arrests cannot be ruled out as the investigation progresses.
