Rescue Operation in Dhemaji: 25-Day-Old Infant Sold for Rs 30,000

In a distressing incident highlighting the severe impacts of poverty, a 25-day-old infant was sold by her parents for Rs 30,000 in Dhemaji district, Assam. The Child Welfare Committee (CWC) intervened and successfully rescued the baby from the residence of a local doctor, officials reported on Tuesday.

The incident came to light when a complaint was lodged at the Silapathar police station against the infant's parents, Budhiman Borah and Sabita Borah, as well as the purchaser and several intermediaries involved in the transaction. Rupali Deka Borgohain, chairperson of the District CWC, stated that the child was born on October 4 at the Assam Medical College and Hospital in Dibrugarh. However, shortly after her birth, the parents fled the hospital, leaving behind a precarious situation.

Borghain noted that the family, struggling financially, resorted to desperate measures. "The father is a daily wage labourer, and they were unable to cope with their financial situation," she said. Following this, the Child Helpline in Dhemaji launched an investigation that led to the tracing of the parents, who were later summoned by the CWC but failed to comply.

Reports indicate that after retrieving the child from the hospital, the parents sold her to Pegu Sohoria and her husband for Rs 30,000. The rescue operation was initiated after a tip-off about the baby’s location at Dr. Chandrajit Doley's home in Silapathar.

Authorities have identified Bubul Borah and Dilip Saikia as key figures in the illegal sale of the infant, and investigations are ongoing to bring all involved parties to justice.

This harrowing case underscores the urgent need for increased support systems for impoverished families and greater awareness regarding the illegal trade in children. The CWC's prompt action highlights the crucial role of child protection agencies in safeguarding vulnerable individuals.