Mother fails to return after leaving 17-day-old baby in companion's care

KOZHIKODE: Police have launched an investigation after a 17-day-old baby girl was allegedly abandoned by her mother following delivery at the Mother and Child Care Centre of Kozhikode Medical College.

The woman, identified as Shahina, a native of Pathanamthitta, is alleged to have left the infant in the care of Ummukulsu, the mother of one of her friends who had accompanied her during childbirth, before disappearing.

According to police, Shahina was admitted to the Mother and Child Care Centre on the 7th of the month and gave birth to the baby the following day. She was discharged on the 12th after telling Ummukulsu that she was travelling to Pathanamthitta and would return soon, leaving the newborn in her care.

Believing Shahina would come back, Ummukulsu continued looking after the infant, staying in rented accommodation at Kalpetta, Thamarassery and Kunnamangalam while waiting for her return. Police said Shahina continued to send money through Google Pay to cover hotel bills and food expenses during this period.

As the days passed without Shahina returning, Ummukulsu approached the Medical College Police Station with the baby at around 4 p.m. yesterday and informed officers about the situation.

The infant was subsequently admitted to the Mother and Child Care Centre for medical examination before being handed over to the Child Welfare Committee (CWC).
Police have since contacted Shahina's parents, who are expected to arrive in Kozhikode today, as the investigation into the incident continues.