A couple from Gurugram has approached the court after DNA tests allegedly revealed that their twins, born through in vitro fertilisation (IVF), have no genetic connection with either parent.
Discovery During Routine Check-Up
The issue came to light months after the twins' birth during a routine medical check-up. Doctors noticed unusual physical features in the babies and recommended detailed genetic testing. The results reportedly showed a complete genetic mismatch, with neither the mother nor the father having any biological link to the children.
“The younger baby looked North-Eastern,” the father, Rahul Rathore, said. “Where are our children? We went there to have children of our own,” the mother added.
Suspected Embryo Mix-Up
The family suspects that embryos belonging to another couple may have been mistakenly implanted, or that a mix-up occurred involving the babies after birth. The couple says they repeatedly approached the IVF centre's management and embryology team seeking access to internal records, medical files, and verification logs, and claim those requests went unanswered.
Expert Observations
Experts note that a complete genetic mismatch of this kind could suggest that one or more verification mechanisms may have failed, been bypassed, or not properly followed during treatment.
Fertility Centre Response
The fertility centre involved has not responded to queries regarding the incident.
Comparisons with Earlier Cases
The case has drawn comparisons with a similar embryo mix-up matter involving a Delhi fertility clinic that had earlier come before the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission.
Regulatory Framework
India's Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021, mandates strict record-keeping and consent protocols at IVF centres, but enforcement has remained patchy. This incident highlights potential gaps in regulatory compliance.
