Newborn baby abandoned in a bag in Odisha’s Sambalpur, rescued

A newborn baby boy was rescued from the Bada Bazaar area on Saturday under the Khetrajpur police station limits in Sambalpur, triggering swift action by local authorities and child welfare agencies. The incident came to light after a local woman noticed a bag lying in the area and suspected something unusual.

On checking the bag, she discovered a newborn baby boy inside. The matter was immediately reported, prompting a rapid response from concerned agencies to ensure the safety of the child.

“When I came to open the shop at around 4:00 a.m., we noticed the child here by about 5:00 a.m. The baby had been kept inside a bag. When we opened it, we found a newborn baby boy inside. He appeared to be around two to three days old,” said the woman who first found the child.

Childline Team Rushes to the Spot

Upon receiving information, the Childline team reached the spot without delay. The baby was taken into safe custody and subsequently produced before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) for further care and protection, as per established child welfare procedures.

Officials confirmed that the health condition of the newborn baby is stable, providing relief amid the shocking circumstances of the discovery.

"We got information that the newborn was abandoned near the Bada Bazaar temple. A couple out on their morning walk spotted the baby and immediately took him to a nearby medical facility for treatment, while keeping the child in their care. They later informed the Khetrajpur Police Station about the incident. The condition of the newborn baby is stable. Since the identity is unknown, it will be produced before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC). Medical treatment will be ensured, and further rehabilitation will be carried out through a recognised adoption agency as per due legal procedure,” said Suchismita Pattnaik, District Child Protection Officer.

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Police Begin Investigation

Meanwhile, Khetrajpur police have initiated an investigation into the incident to ascertain who abandoned the baby and under what circumstances. Efforts are underway to trace those responsible and understand the background of the case.

The timely intervention by alert citizens and coordinated action by Childline and police authorities ensured the safety of the newborn. The incident underscores the importance of public awareness and prompt reporting in safeguarding vulnerable lives.