Baby swap at Cuttack SCB hospital: Orissa HC seeks reply by April 2

The superintendent of SCB Medical College and Hospital (SCBMCH) in Cuttack City was directed by the Orissa High Court on Monday to reply on or before April 2, 2025, in connection with a recent baby swap allegation at the government-run health facility.

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“It is directed that the Superintendent of SCB Medical College and Hospital Cuttack shall file a reply by 2nd April, 2025,” the bench of Justice Dr. SK Panigrahi said.

This is how the alleged swap occurred

Worth mentioning, on February 10, the petitioner’s wife was admitted to SCBMCH, in the Obstetrics and Gynecology department for delivery. On the next day, at around 9.00 AM, she gave birth to a female child. At the time of birth, the baby was in good health, crying normally, and showing no signs of distress.

The petitioner’s family members captured photographs of the newborn. Shortly thereafter, the baby girl was moved to the hospital ICU, despite being in stable condition with no apparent complications.

On February 12, when the baby’s grandmother visited the ICU, the hospital staff handed her over a deceased infant. The family, unaware of any prior health issues, accepted the body without immediate verification and proceeded to the Mahanadi River for burial.

However, upon uncovering the face of the deceased infant, they were shocked. Upon closer inspection, they found that the bundle handed over by the hospital contained only sand wrapped in cloth, raising serious doubts about the identity and whereabouts of their child.

Despite running from pillar to post by the petitioner, no action seems to have been taken by SCBMCH authorities, Mangalabag Police Station, DCP-Cuttack, and District Collector.

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“Due to this continued inaction, the petitioner is now constrained to approach this Court for redressal. The facts before this Court reveal more than negligence. They reflect a serious breach of trust in an institution meant to provide care and protection to the most vulnerable,” the court order mentioned.