In a deeply troubling incident that has shocked the city of Kolkata, a woman named Rupali Mondal has been arrested for allegedly selling her own infant daughter to another woman in exchange for Rs 4 lakh. The distressing matter came to light when officials at Anandapur police station received information about the illegal transaction that Rupali, a resident of the Rail colony in Kolkata’s Nonadanga, had engaged in, selling off her not-even-a-month-old daughter.
Following the tip-off, the police promptly questioned Rupali about the alleged sale, but she reportedly failed to provide any satisfactory answers, raising suspicions further. Subsequently, on Monday morning, she was arrested, and during the course of interrogation, she shockingly confessed to the heinous crime of selling her infant daughter. This admission of guilt also led to the arrest of two others allegedly involved in the despicable act, namely Rupa Das and Swapna Sardar.
The case was registered based on a complaint lodged by Rupali’s next-door neighbor, Pratima Bhuinya, who brought this abhorrent matter to the authorities’ attention. The accused trio now faces serious charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 317 (abandoning a child), 370 (buying or disposing of a person), 372 (selling a minor), and 120 B (criminal conspiracy). Additionally, they are charged under relevant sections of the Juvenile Justice (Care & Protection of Children) Act.
This appalling incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern among the public and highlights the urgent need to address the issue of child trafficking and exploitation. It is a stark reminder of the vulnerability and innocence of young children who can fall victim to such heartless acts. Authorities and child welfare organizations must continue their efforts to identify and eliminate the networks involved in these illegal activities to protect the safety and well-being of vulnerable children.
The incident also raises questions about the socio-economic factors that may have driven the accused to commit such a desperate act and underscores the importance of providing support and resources to families facing financial hardships to prevent such tragic outcomes. By addressing the root causes and providing assistance to those in need, we can take steps towards creating a safer and more compassionate society for all.
