A private hospital in Bengaluru Rural district has been sealed, and seven individuals, including four hospital staff, have been arrested following the discovery of a female foetus in a dustbin on the premises. The incident occurred at a hospital in Thirumalashettyhalli in Hoskote taluk. Health officials, during an inspection, found the foetus and alerted the police, leading to the immediate sealing of the hospital. The owner of the hospital, D Srinivas, who is a radiologist, is absconding, and further investigation is underway to determine the extent of illegal abortions conducted at the facility.
The discovery comes in the wake of recent crackdowns on female foeticide rackets in Mandya and Mysuru, prompting heightened monitoring of hospitals and diagnostic centers to curb illegal activities. Officials in Hoskote taluk had previously seized documents from SPG Hospital and Diagnostic Center, revealing discrepancies. A subsequent inspection on Wednesday uncovered a woman in the operation theatre, raising suspicions that the discarded foetus might belong to her. The accused face charges under the Prohibition of Sex Selection Act, Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.
