Jharkhand Woman Returns Baby to Family After 13 Days

A newborn baby, who was sold shortly after birth, has been reunited with his mother following a dramatic intervention by authorities. The infant was returned to his family in Bhojpur, Bihar, after being in the possession of a woman from Jharkhand for 13 days. The incident highlights serious issues surrounding child trafficking in the region.

The baby was sold by his grandmother, Krinta Devi, in an apparent effort to punish his parents, Khushboo Kumari and Chitaranjan Kumar, for marrying against familial wishes due to their shared cousin relationship. According to police reports, Poonam Sharma purchased the baby from a rural doctor for ₹ 4.5 lakh (approximately $5,400) and later decided to return him after fears arose regarding the arrests of those involved in the trafficking ring.

Details of the Case Unfold

The case began when Khushboo and Chitaranjan reported their newborn’s disappearance to the police in December 2023. They alleged that Krinta Devi, disapproving of their marriage, sold the child for just ₹ 50,000 (about $600) as an act of retaliation. Authorities acted quickly, arresting Krinta Devi along with several accomplices, including Kavita Sharma, a relative from the same village, and Chandni Sharma, a Home Guard constable.

The investigation led to the arrest of Dr. Dilip, identified as a quack and the primary figure in the baby-selling operation. His assistant, Preeti Kumari, was also taken into custody. Information obtained from Dr. Dilip revealed the location of the baby in Jharkhand, prompting police to coordinate with local authorities there.

When news reached Khushboo that her baby had been recovered, she rushed to the Bhojpur police station to reclaim him. Expressing her gratitude, she described the return of her child as nothing short of miraculous. Station House Officer Kamaljeet stated that the arrests were part of a larger investigation into a gang involved in the illegal buying and selling of children.

Broader Implications

This case underscores the growing problem of child trafficking in India, where familial disputes can lead to tragic decisions. The police’s quick response and the eventual return of the baby highlight the need for continued vigilance and action against such crimes. The tragic circumstances surrounding the child’s sale reflect the complexities of familial relationships and societal norms that can lead to such drastic actions.

As investigations continue, authorities are focusing on dismantling the network involved in the child trafficking operation, ensuring that more families do not suffer similar fates. The return of the baby is a significant victory for law enforcement, but it also serves as a reminder of the challenges that persist in protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation.