The Ludhiana Police have arrested five individuals, including a woman and a doctor, for allegedly selling a newborn baby girl for ₹2.10 lakh.
According to Additional DCP Sameer Verma, the child’s mother, Sunita Devi of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Colony, Sherpur Kalan, allegedly sold her fifth daughter as she did not wish to raise another girl child. Police said she already has four daughters.
Deal allegedly negotiated with help of accomplices
Investigations revealed that the baby was allegedly sold to a childless woman, Mandeep Kaur of Nangal in Moga district, who had reportedly agreed to pay ₹2.10 lakh.
Police have also arrested Praveen, described as a friend of the mother, along with Manmeet Kaur, a BAMS doctor from Punjab Mata Nagar, Ludhiana, and her associate Ruchi from Sant Kabir Nagar, Daba Road. Authorities allege that these individuals played a role in negotiating and facilitating the deal.
Case registered, probe underway
Police said a case has been registered under relevant sections of law related to illegal adoption and human trafficking. Officials are investigating the circumstances surrounding the birth and the alleged transaction.
Authorities have reiterated that the sale or purchase of a child is a serious criminal offence. They added that strict action will be taken against anyone found involved in such practices.
The incident has sparked concern locally, raising questions about gender bias and illegal adoption networks. Police stated that efforts are being made to ensure the safety and welfare of the newborn.