Police Arrest Doctor and Technicians in Hyderabad Fertility Scam

Authorities in Hyderabad have arrested Dr. Namrata, the manager of the Universal Shrishti Fertility Center, along with two lab technicians, in connection with a significant illegal surrogacy and sperm trafficking operation. The arrests were made after an extensive interrogation of the staff that lasted until 02:00 AM, during which crucial documents and sperm samples were confiscated.

The investigation revealed that the fertility center had been illicitly collecting and transporting sperm and eggs to the states of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. This operation was reportedly conducted in partnership with a company named Indian Sperm Tech, which lacked the necessary legal permissions to operate. Following this discovery, regional manager Pankaj Soni and six other individuals—identified as Sampath, Srinu, Jitender, Shiva, Manikantha, and Boro—were also taken into custody.

Background of the Case

The case gained traction after a couple from Rajasthan, residing in Secunderabad, paid ₹30 lakh for a surrogacy procedure through the Universal Shrishti Fertility Center three years ago. After the child was born in 2023, the couple requested a DNA verification of the surrogate mother. Allegations against Dr. Namrata surfaced when she reportedly delayed the verification process. Independent tests conducted in Delhi later confirmed that the child bore no biological relation to the couple.

In June 2023, when the couple confronted Dr. Namrata about these discrepancies, she allegedly acknowledged the mistake and requested additional time to address the situation. However, she subsequently vanished, prompting the couple to file a complaint with the Gopalapuram police. This complaint initiated a thorough investigation, leading to the recent arrests.

The implications of this case extend beyond individual accountability; they raise significant ethical concerns regarding surrogacy practices in India. As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement officials are expected to delve deeper into the operations of the Universal Shrishti Fertility Center and its connections to other entities involved in similar activities.

The Fertility Center’s involvement in illegal practices may lead to stricter regulations and oversight within the surrogacy sector, which is often scrutinized for its ethical considerations. The results of this investigation could serve as a pivotal moment for the fertility industry in India, highlighting the necessity for transparency and adherence to legal standards.

As this case progresses, further updates from law enforcement are anticipated. The potential for additional arrests or revelations remains high, particularly as investigators continue to unravel the extent of the alleged illegal operations.