UP Government Revokes Hospital License Following Baby Trafficking Scandal in Noida
The Uttar Pradesh government has taken decisive action by cancelling the license of Navjeevan Hospital located in Bisrakh, Noida. Authorities have also commenced steps to seal the medical facility after its owner and two staff members were apprehended for allegedly attempting to sell a five-day-old infant girl for a sum of Rs 2.6 lakh.
Police Report Triggers Immediate Regulatory Action
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Chandan Soni confirmed that the license revocation was based on a police report. "The hospital's licence has been cancelled on the basis of police inputs," Soni stated. He further explained that a three-member committee led by the Chief Medical Officer will conduct a thorough investigation into the hospital's records.
The committee's mandate includes:
- Examining all hospital records, including delivery registers
- Verifying the identities of mothers who delivered at the facility
- Detecting any potential manipulation or tampering with documents
- Compiling findings as evidence for potential court proceedings
Comprehensive Document Scrutiny Underway
Officials revealed that the investigative panel will meticulously scrutinize documents stored in the hospital's record room. This examination will focus on:
- Names and addresses of women who delivered at the hospital
- Other crucial personal details of mothers
- Any discrepancies in record-keeping practices
A senior health official emphasized that the primary objective is to establish the real identities of mothers and determine whether any records were altered or falsified. This forensic examination aims to trace the infant's complete medical and administrative trail within the hospital system.
How the Trafficking Operation Unfolded
The case came to light when a couple residing in Ace City, Bisrakh, alerted child protection authorities about a suspicious WhatsApp message. The message claimed a newborn girl was "available for adoption." Police investigations revealed that the message was circulated by Pushpa, a nurse employed at Navjeevan Hospital who also worked as domestic help in the residential society.
When the complainant's wife contacted the number provided by Pushpa, she was allegedly informed that the baby could be handed over for Rs 2.6 lakh and that she needed to make a quick decision. This prompted immediate action from both Childline officials and local police authorities.
Sting Operation Leads to Multiple Arrests
Acting on the complaint, Childline officials and police personnel orchestrated a carefully planned trap. At the predetermined location, two hospital employees arrived on a scooter carrying the newborn infant:
- Ranjeet Singh (24), an operation theatre technician
- Gajendra Singh (35), a hospital cleaner
Both individuals were promptly arrested at the scene. During subsequent interrogation, police stated that the two claimed they were acting under instructions from hospital owner Yashika Garg, who was subsequently apprehended.
Garg allegedly told investigators that a woman named Anjali had delivered the baby at the hospital five days earlier and expressed inability to raise the child. Police authorities continue their search for nurse Pushpa and her husband, who remain at large.
Medical Care and Ongoing Investigation
The rescued infant is currently undergoing a comprehensive medical examination at Child PGI in Sector 30, Noida. Health officials have prioritized the baby's wellbeing while the criminal investigation progresses simultaneously.
This case has highlighted serious concerns about medical ethics and regulatory oversight in private healthcare facilities. The Uttar Pradesh government's swift response demonstrates a commitment to addressing such violations with appropriate severity. The sealing of the hospital premises represents a significant step toward preventing potential future misconduct at the facility.
As the investigation continues, authorities emphasize that any hospital found involved in illegal activities will face stringent consequences. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilant monitoring in healthcare institutions to protect vulnerable patients, particularly newborns and their mothers.
