Mayurbhanj: The Khunta police in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district arrested three persons in connection with the sale of an infant girl for Rs 800.
The shocking incident has been reported from Mahulia village under Khunta police limits in the Mayurbhanj district. According to reports, in poverty and saddened by the birth of a second daughter, Karami Murmu allegedly sold her eight-month-old girl to a couple for just Rs 800 on Monday. Incidentally, Karami’s husband was unaware of this deal as he was away in Tamil Nadu working for a living.
Karami was reportedly not happy after giving birth to her second daughter. She discussed this matter with her neighbour Mahi Murmu, who arranged a couple to buy the newborn baby from Karami for Rs 800.
When Karami’s husband arrived home, he was unable to find his younger daughter and inquired about her. When he learned that Karami sold his daughter, he was heartbroken and complained about this connection at the Khunta police station.
The police registered a case based on the complaint and started an investigation into the matter. Later, the police arrested three persons in connection with the sale of the baby – the mediator and the couple who bought the baby. The police also rescued the baby and gave her to her parents.
The arrested include Karami Murmu and the couple who bought the baby – Phulmandi Marandi and Tudukud. The mediator Mahi Murmu has also been arrested.
The incident has sent shock waves in the region as people are asking how a mother could sell her child. The sale of the child has also raised questions on the awareness level of the tribals residing in the region and the need to initiate measures to uplift their lot.