What Led to the Bust of an Illegal Abortion Racket in Gujarat?
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Synopsis
In a significant operation, authorities in Gujarat have exposed a clandestine abortion racket. This incident raises alarming questions about unlicensed medical practices in rural areas. Explore how the Ahmedabad Rural SOG and health department collaborated to tackle this pressing issue.
Key Takeaways
- Illegal abortion racket busted in Gujarat.
- Conducted by Ahmedabad Rural SOG and Bavla Health Department.
- Prime accused performed abortions without a medical degree.
- Three women were found at the scene, one having undergone an abortion.
- Legal action initiated under MTP Act.
Ahmedabad, May 27 (NationPress) The Ahmedabad Rural Special Operations Group (SOG), along with the Bavla Taluka Health Department, has successfully dismantled an illegal abortion racket operating from a guest house in Bavla town, Gujarat.
The operation was initiated after receiving a tip-off during routine patrols by SOG personnel.
Upon acting on this crucial information, authorities conducted a raid on Room 105 of the Panama Guest House, where unauthorized medical procedures were allegedly being performed.
The main suspect, identified as Hemlatta Darji, a resident of Dholka, was caught conducting abortions without possessing a legitimate medical degree.
Officials revealed that Hemlatta had merely completed a nursing program and previously worked at Santokba Hospital in Dholka.
Leveraging this experience, she allegedly executed abortions for monetary gain, charging pregnant women significant fees for pregnancy terminations.
Investigators disclosed that she rented rooms within the guest house to conduct these operations discreetly. During the raid, three women were present, including one who had recently undergone an abortion.
A foetus was also retrieved from the premises, and medical instruments utilized for termination procedures were confiscated by health officials.
A case has been filed at Bavla Police Station under applicable sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971. Legal actions have also commenced against the three women found at the site.
Senior health officials emphasized that this crackdown is part of a broader initiative to identify and prosecute unregistered medical practitioners operating in rural regions.
“Such illegal activities not only jeopardize the lives of women but also represent a grave breach of the law,” stated an official.
Further investigations are ongoing to identify any networks or accomplices linked to this operation.
Illegal abortion cases have become a significant issue in Gujarat. In another incident, a 23-year-old tuition teacher from Surat was arrested under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act for allegedly abducting and sexually assaulting her 13-year-old student. Upon her arrest, it was revealed that she was 20 weeks pregnant.
The court allowed for the medical termination of her pregnancy, citing potential risks to her mental and physical health. The procedure was to be conducted under professional medical supervision, preserving the foetus for DNA analysis to assist with the investigation.
Point of View
It's imperative to address the growing concern surrounding unregulated medical practices, particularly in rural areas. The recent bust of an illegal abortion racket in Gujarat sheds light on a serious issue that threatens women's health and safety. It is crucial for our legal and health systems to work together to prevent such violations and ensure that women receive care from qualified professionals.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the main findings of the raid?
The raid uncovered an illegal abortion racket at the Panama Guest House in Bavla, where unlicensed medical procedures were being performed by Hemlatta Darji, who lacked a valid medical degree.
What legal actions have been taken?
A case has been filed at Bavla Police Station under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, against the main accused and three women present during the raid.
Why is the issue of illegal abortions concerning?
Illegal abortions pose significant health risks to women and violate legal standards, necessitating a crackdown on unregistered medical practitioners.
