Investigation into 27 ART centres in Telangana over illegal egg collection scam

The Telangana Health Department has intensified its probe into an alleged illegal oocyte (egg) collection scam, under which 27 out of 44 identified Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) centres across the state have been inspected. According to a report by The Hindu, officials discovered 13 regulatory violations across seven hospitals during the investigation and have issued show-cause notices to their management.

Health Minister C. Damodar Rajanarasimha has ordered the department to conduct a comprehensive investigation into illegal activities carried out under the guise of oocyte collection. He further stated that strict action should be initiated against institutions and individuals violating the prescribed rules.

Based on the Minister's directives, task force teams have been inspecting IVF centres across the state for the past four days. The inspection process for the remaining facilities is still underway.

The Health Department has clarified that further action will be taken after a detailed examination of documents seized by the police and based on information received from the National ART and Surrogacy Registry. The investigation is also examining the involvement of women, doctors, IVF centres, and middlemen who facilitated these activities in this case.

As part of the probe, Health Department officials visited the National ART and Surrogacy Registry in New Delhi on November 6. There, they requested details of the data submitted by registered ART clinics and ART banks operating in Telangana.

The department has reiterated that the process of oocyte collection must strictly adhere to the provisions of the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act and rules. It is mandatory for all ART clinics and ART banks operating in the state to obtain statutory registration and follow the prescribed regulatory framework.

Additionally, the Health Department has warned women not to fall for false assurances and financial lures offered by middlemen. The department cautioned that such arrangements could make them victims of unauthorised medical procedures.