Agartala, 1st September 2026 : Allegations of a newborn baby boy being handed over for Rs 1.5 lakh amid severe financial hardship have sparked concern in Shantirbazar subdivision, with the alleged involvement of a local ASHA worker coming under scrutiny.
The incident reportedly took place in Gidday Kumarpara under Lakshmichhara Village. According to local allegations, Harendra Tripura, the infant’s father, handed over his newborn son to a woman identified as Debika Riang of Deshrai Para in exchange for Rs 1.5 lakh. It is further alleged that the transaction was facilitated by a local ASHA worker and was carried out without the consent of the child’s mother, Manimala Tripura.
Manimala reportedly gave birth to the boy at Baikhora Primary Health Centre on August 25. The couple, who already have four other children, is said to be facing serious financial difficulties. The infant allegedly remained at the health centre for around two days before being taken away by the purported recipients.
Another issue that has raised questions is the hospital documentation. It has been alleged that Debika Riang’s name was entered in the hospital register in place of the biological mother’s name, Manimala Tripura. The circumstances behind the entry are yet to be established.
The matter came to light late Sunday night when local journalists informed the South District Magistrate, District Social Education Officer and District Childline. Childline personnel subsequently visited Baikhora Primary Health Centre and inspected the register, where they reportedly found Debika’s name recorded. As the hospital office was closed at the time, officials could not obtain further details.
Later, accompanied by police personnel, Childline officials visited Gidday Kumarpara, around 16 km from Baikhora. During inquiries, Harendra Tripura reportedly admitted that he had handed over the child for Rs 1.5 lakh.
Following instructions from the District Childline authorities, the family was directed to appear at Baikhora Police Station with the newborn and their four other children. The family reportedly appeared at the police station on Tuesday morning, after which the newborn was handed over to Childline authorities in Belonia.
The incident has raised several questions regarding the alleged financial transaction, the identity of those involved in taking custody of the infant and the recording of another woman’s name in official hospital documents. The alleged role of the ASHA worker also remains to be established.
Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether any laws or official procedures were violated.
