In a disturbing incident that has captured national attention, a couple from Rayagada district, Odisha, has been accused of selling their newborn daughter to a couple from Andhra Pradesh for a mere ₹20,000. This shocking case is the second of its kind reported within a week in the state, raising alarms about the dire socioeconomic conditions that may be driving such desperate actions. Authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the transaction and its broader implications on the well-being of children in the area.
On November 3, the couple welcomed their second daughter, adding to their family that already included a two-year-old girl. Facing severe financial constraints, with the father earning only ₹2,000 per month as a helper in a local transport company, the parents felt they could not provide adequately for another child. "We wanted to give her a better chance, but we simply cannot afford to raise her," the father stated during a police interrogation.
With the help of a mediator, the couple allegedly arranged an informal adoption, signing an agreement before a notary on November 12. However, police officials have clarified that the adoption was illegal. "Any agreement of this nature, especially involving financial transactions, is not recognized under child welfare laws," said a senior police officer involved in the case. Both families have denied any monetary exchange, claiming the arrangement was made purely out of necessity.
The matter came to light when local Anganwadi and Asha workers alerted the District Child Protection Unit about the situation. Following the report, the Child Protection Committee took custody of the baby. “It is illegal to transfer custody of a child without following the proper adoption procedures,” emphasized a child protection officer. “For the child’s safety and wellbeing, we have brought her into our custody.”
The couple from Andhra Pradesh, who have also been implicated in this case, reportedly claimed ignorance of the legal frameworks surrounding child adoption. They expressed remorse and confusion, stating they only wanted to provide a loving home to a child in need. "We thought we were helping. We had no idea this was against the law," the woman said during questioning.
Social workers and child welfare advocates are calling for immediate attention to the broader issues of poverty and lack of education that contribute to these tragic situations. "No parent should feel that they have to resort to such measures because of financial strain," remarked Anjali Patnaik, a child rights activist. “We need more robust social support systems to ensure families have access to the resources and education they need to care for their children.”
As the investigation continues, community leaders are urging the government to implement more comprehensive child welfare programs aimed at alleviating poverty and educating families about their rights and responsibilities regarding child care and adoption. The case has ignited discussions across Odisha, prompting many to reconsider how society can better support its most vulnerable members.
In conclusion, the sale of a newborn baby girl by a desperate couple underscores a grim reality faced by many families in Odisha. As authorities work to address the immediate legal implications, the underlying issues of poverty and education in the region must also be confronted to prevent future tragedies. The welfare of children must remain a priority, ensuring that all families can provide a safe and nurturing environment for their young ones.