Fertility Centres Under Lens In Egg Donation Racket
Police suspect eggs collected from women recruited through agents were supplied to fertility centres, with investigations examining possible violations of ART regulations.
In a shocking development in the egg donation racket busted by Malkajgiri Police, investigators suspect that eggs collected from women recruited through agents were being sold to fertility centres. Couples undergoing consultations and fertility procedures were allegedly unaware of the source of the eggs.
A source said a few fertility centres were under the scanner over the alleged procurement and use of eggs linked to the racket. Police are probing the extent of their alleged involvement and whether prescribed procedures were followed.
Couples approaching fertility centres for consultations or treatment allegedly believed they were receiving procedures in accordance with the required medical protocols. They were reportedly unaware of the source of the eggs and their alleged replacement.
All nine accused arrested in connection with the case were sent to judicial remand on Sunday.
Police said the rescued women were aged between 20 and 35, with most in the 20–25 age group. They were brought to Hyderabad from West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra and allegedly made to donate eggs as frequently as once a month.
The women were paid between `30,000 and `40,000 for each donation, and some as little as `20,000.
Another source said recruitment agents allegedly identified the women and brought them to Hyderabad before arranging accommodation in hostels or rented rooms. Police said false reasons were given to property owners when arranging accommodation for them.
The investigation is now focused on identifying the wider network of recruitment agents and tracing how the women were transported to Hyderabad. Police are also verifying suspected forged Aadhaar cards, affidavits and other documents allegedly used in the operation. Investigators are examining medical records, the frequency of egg donations, insurance coverage and the safety protocols followed during the procedures. Financial transactions, commissions and links between organisers, agents and other intermediaries are also under scrutiny.
Police are also verifying the role of fertility centres and ART banks under the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021.
