Cash-for-Baby Scam Shocks India: Srushti Fertility Centre Fertility Clinic Under Fire
In a disturbing revelation that has sent shockwaves across India, the Universal Srushti Fertility Centre—operated by Dr. Athaluri Namratha—has come under scrutiny for allegedly orchestrating a cash-for-baby scam. The clinic, which claimed to offer IVF and surrogacy services, is now accused of deceiving childless couples and exploiting vulnerable families.
The investigation began when multiple couples reported emotional and financial exploitation. They were promised biological children through surrogacy and IVF procedures, only to discover later that the babies handed over were not genetically related to them. DNA tests confirmed the deception, and forged documents were allegedly used to mask the truth.
One couple paid ₹35 lakh, believing they were receiving their own child through surrogacy. Instead, they were handed a baby bought from a poor family for just ₹90,000. Another couple was shown a deceased child unrelated to them, while others were threatened when they demanded transparency.
Authorities have arrested Dr. Namratha, her son, and several associates including doctors, agents, and biological parents involved in the racket. The clinic reportedly operated illegally across multiple cities including Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, and Kolkata, despite its license being revoked in 2021.
The scam involved fake IVF records, forged birth certificates, and unauthorized use of medical licenses. In one case, the name of a 90-year-old gynecologist was misused to gain trust. Couples were charged exorbitant fees—ranging from ₹30 to ₹40 lakh—while agents received payments based on the gender of the child.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has taken over the probe, citing the need for a deeper inquiry into what appears to be a well-organized syndicate. Officials fear that many more victims may come forward as the investigation unfolds.
This case has sparked national outrage, raising serious questions about the regulation of fertility clinics and the protection of emotionally vulnerable couples. Legal experts are calling for stricter oversight, while human rights advocates demand justice for the families affected.
The emotional toll on the victims is immeasurable. Many had placed their last hopes in these treatments, only to be betrayed. The trauma of discovering that their child was not biologically theirs—and that the entire process was a sham—has left lasting scars.
Medical ethics, legal accountability, and emotional healing are now at the center of this unfolding story. As the investigation continues, the country watches closely, hoping for justice and reform in the fertility sector.
