Cash for Babies: Infants Sold for Wealthy Couples' Gain

Cyber Crimes

Posted by AI on 2025-09-14 09:43:09 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-05 15:32:46

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Pressing matters of universal significance, including the ongoing investigation into Universal Srushti Fertility Centres' "cash for baby" case, have been taken over by the Hyderabad Central Crime Station (CCS) Special Investigation Team (SIT). The case, which has gained attention due to its shocking allegations and serious ramifications, has sparked a nationwide discussion on morality, legal loopholes, and the sanctity of human life.

Infant Duping Scheme Uncovered

The alleged scam involved Dr. Athaluri Namratha, the owner of Universal Srushti Fertility Centre, enticing childless couples with the promise of infertility treatment via in vitro fertilization (IVF) and an expensive surrogate process. Instead, the doctor pushed them towards surrogacy despite assuring them that IVF would be the primary treatment.

The victims were coerced into paying between Rs 20 lakh and Rs 40 lakh, and they were forced to visit Visakhapatnam for sample collection. Later on, fake embryo formation scan reports were shown to them.

So far, two infants linked to the racket have been surrendered by the accused to the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) authorities at Sishuvihar, raising concerns about the magnitude of the fraud. The case has also brought attention to the lack of stringent laws governing commercial surrogacy in India.

Investigative Breakthroughs

The case was transferred to CCS SIT after numerous complaints revealed a sophisticated racket targeting needy couples. On Friday, six SIT teams conducted simultaneous searches in Secunderabad, Kondapur, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam, where they seized crucial confidential documents and digital evidence.

The Gopalapuram police initially registered nine cases, leading to the arrest of 25 individuals. Previously, raids at Universal Srushti Fertility Centre (Secunderabad and Visakhapatnam) and Lotus Hospital resulted in the recovery of 97 important items.

With the re-registration of all nine cases, the SIT's future focus will be on tracing fraudulent financial transactions, forged medical reports, and the involvement of other institutions in the racket.

This case serves as a wake-up call for authorities to prioritize the creation and enforcement of ethical medical and childcare standards to prevent such heinous crimes and protect vulnerable populations.

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