Newborn baby’s body found near Naraj Barrage in Cuttack; Police launch probe

The body of a newborn baby boy was recovered from the Naraj barrage area in Cuttack on Sunday morning, prompting a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the infant’s death.

The body was found on the gate structure beneath the Naraj bridge, after which police and Fire Department personnel rushed to the spot and carried out recovery operations. The body was later sent for post-mortem examination to SCB Medical College and Hospital.

According to preliminary information, the newborn was allegedly thrown from the Naraj bridge. However, instead of falling into the river, the infant landed on the concrete portion of the barrage gate located below the bridge.

Suspicion of Deliberate Act

Sources said the incident appears to be a deliberate act. Initial assessments suggest that the infant may have been thrown from the middle stretch of the bridge, as CCTV cameras are installed at both ends. Investigators suspect the location may have been chosen to avoid surveillance and conceal the identity of those involved.

Police are also examining the possibility that the act may have been committed by the parents, though no confirmation has been made so far.

It is believed that those responsible may have intended to dispose of the body in the river so that it would be swept away by the current. Instead, the infant reportedly struck the concrete structure beneath the bridge. Authorities are also investigating whether the baby died due to the impact.

CCTV Footage Under Review

Local residents first noticed the body and immediately informed the police and the fire department. Fire service personnel, in coordination with the police, recovered the body from the site.

Police said CCTV footage from the surrounding areas will be examined to determine how the infant was brought to the location and to identify those involved in the incident.

The investigation is ongoing, and further details are awaited.