In a shocking case of infant trafficking, the Kulsumpura police in Hyderabad registered a case against five individuals, including the biological parents of a 12-day-old baby boy, on Wednesday. The infant was rescued from a couple who had purchased him illegally.
Details of the Case
According to the police, the baby was born on May 29 to Mohan and Sandhya, a couple residing in the Kulsumpura area. The infant was reportedly born with a disability. Subsequently, Mohan approached a distant relative named Padma, a resident of Jiyaguda, with the intention of selling the baby.
Padma acted as a mediator and connected the biological parents to Madhusudhan and Meena, a childless couple who were willing to buy the infant. An agreement was reached for the sale of the baby for ₹1.70 lakh, which Madhusudhan was to pay to Padma.
Illegal Transaction
The police stated that the entire transaction and transfer of the child were carried out illegally, without following any legal procedures prescribed for adoption under the law. The exchange of money and the handover of the infant were done clandestinely.
Rescue and Legal Action
The illegal trade came to light after the Women and Child Welfare Department received information about the incident. A child protection officer filed a complaint with the Kulsumpura police. Acting swiftly, the police rescued the baby and handed him over to the Child Welfare Committee, which placed him in Sishu Vihar, a shelter home for children.
The Kulsumpura police registered a zero First Information Report (FIR) in the case. The investigation will be transferred to Nandigama police station for further action, as the crime occurred within their jurisdiction.
The five accused include the baby's parents, Mohan and Sandhya, the mediator Padma, and the purchasing couple, Madhusudhan and Meena. All have been booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act.
Legal Implications
Under Indian law, any adoption must be carried out through the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) or other recognized agencies. Selling or buying a child is a serious offense punishable with imprisonment. The authorities have emphasized that such illegal transactions will be dealt with strictly.
The rescued infant is currently under medical observation and will be placed for legal adoption after due process. The Child Welfare Committee will ensure the child's well-being and future.
