Cuttack: SCB Medical College and Hospital has launched an inquiry following a petition alleging the sale of 14 newborns from the hospital between 2019 and 2025. The probe was initiated after the office of the Revenue Divisional Commissioner (RDC), Central Range, forwarded a grievance petition seeking an investigation and an action-taken report.
Petition Details
The petition, filed by RTI activist Achyuta Sahoo, claimed that the children were born mostly to destitute and mentally unsound women. It alleged serious procedural violations, including the handing over of newborns to individuals who had brought the women for treatment, raising the possibility of illegal adoption or trafficking.
Hospital Response
SCB Superintendent Jyotish Choudhury confirmed that upon receiving the RDC’s order, the hospital initiated a detailed probe. “All records from the past six years are being thoroughly examined. Appropriate action will follow based on the findings,” Choudhury said on Monday.
Official Communication
A letter dated April 20, issued by Sanjeev Hansdah, Undersecretary to the RDC, was sent to SCB Medical College and Hospital along with the petition, ordering a probe. The cases relate to infants born in the Obstetrics and Gynaecology department, whose custody details and follow-up records were allegedly missing.
Vulnerable Mothers
Most of the mothers were reportedly mentally challenged or destitute, and their hospitalisation was facilitated by social workers or unidentified persons. As per protocol, such newborns are required to be handed over to authorised childcare institutions in coordination with the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) and the District Child Protection Officer (DCPO).
Police Involvement
Deputy Commissioner of Police Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo stated that the matter spans six years and each case would need to be verified individually. “We are collecting information. If any criminal angle emerges, the police will investigate and take action as per law,” he said.
Activist's Claims
When asked how he arrived at the number of missing children, Sahoo said it was gleaned from several RTI applications and inquiries made by a team of activists who have been following the matter over the past few years. “Since the victims are vulnerable, there is hardly any chance of them complaining in most cases,” Sahoo said. He further alleged that the infants may have been sold to unidentified persons.
