A Gurugram couple has approached the courts after DNA tests allegedly revealed their twins, born through in vitro fertilization (IVF), share no genetic connection with either parent. This has raised serious questions about embryo-handling protocols at the fertility centre where they underwent treatment.
Discovery of the Mismatch
The issue came to light months after the twins’ birth during a routine medical check-up, when doctors noticed unusual physical features and recommended detailed genetic testing. The results showed a complete genetic mismatch, with neither the mother nor the father sharing a biological connection with the children.
“The younger baby looked North-Eastern,” said the father, Rahul Rathore. The mother added, “Where are our children? We went there to have children of our own.”
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 said they repeatedly approached the IVF centre’s management and embryology team seeking access to internal records, medical files, and verification logs, but claim those requests went unanswered.
Implications for Fertility Clinics
The case has drawn significant attention and could lead to closer scrutiny of laboratory protocols at fertility centres across the country. Experts note that a complete genetic mismatch of this kind could indicate that one or more verification mechanisms failed, were bypassed, or were not properly followed during treatment.
Comparisons with Previous Cases
The matter has also drawn comparisons with a similar embryo mix-up case involving a Delhi fertility clinic that was previously brought 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. The case is likely to renew calls for mandatory embryo-tracking audits and third-party oversight of assisted reproductive technology laboratories.
The fertility centre involved has not responded to queries.
