UP: Prison officials baffled as woman jailed since Nov 34-weeks pregnant

Lucknow: Prison authorities were in for a shock on Sunday after sonography reports revealed that a 21-year-old female inmate lodged at Jaunpur jail for murder charges since November last is 34-weeks pregnant.

According to reports, the matter came to light after a senior prison consultant suspected her to be pregnant and suggested that she be sent for a medical examination.

The girl, who is lodged in prison with her mother and sister, has been accused of murdering one of her relatives using a sharp edged weapon, motivated by a property dispute. The girl’s father, who was also in prison, has been granted bail.

Recounting that she never complained of any issues to the female doctor who visited jail once a week, District Jail Superintendent Shailendra Maitrey said, “The girl was brought to the jail on November 2 and she mentioned her marital status as unmarried. They regularly go for court for hearings.”

He added, “A few days ago, a senior woman consultant suspected her to be pregnant. The doctor advised that she be sent for medical examination. An ultrasound test was conducted, which stated that she is 34-weeks pregnant. We will send the report to the court… Other tests have also been conducted and we are taking all precautions that should be taken for any pregnant woman.”

The jail authorities and district administration of Jaunpur have ordered separate probes regarding the incident.