Police Rescue Infant Allegedly Sold in Odisha

Police rescued a one-month-old boy, allegedly sold to a childless couple for Rs 7,000, in Jajpur district, Odisha. The incident was reported after the child's mother sought police help. The child is under Childline's care while investigations continue.

Police on Tuesday rescued a one-month-old boy, allegedly sold to a childless couple for Rs 7,000, in Odisha's Jajpur district, an official reported.

The incident occurred over a week ago in the Dasarathapur area of the district.

The situation was unveiled after the child's mother had second thoughts and requested police intervention to rescue the infant, according to a police officer.

Facing financial difficulties and the birth of their third child, the couple allegedly sold their newborn through a middleman, the officer said. A team composed of police and other officials went to Haladipada village on Tuesday and successfully rescued the child.

Barendra Krushna Das, coordinator of the government-recognised Childline organization, confirmed that the baby is currently under their custody. The child will be presented before the Child Welfare Committee for further action.

Inspector-in-Charge of Jajpur Town police station, S K Patra, stated they are also attempting to locate the middleman who fled following the incident.

(With inputs from agencies.)