Police probe underway in Alappuzha over baby born with disabilities

ALAPPUZHA: Police have initiated an investigation into the birth of a baby with severe disabilities, focusing on possible lapses in prenatal scanning reports. A team led by Alappuzha DySP Madhu Babu is spearheading the inquiry, which includes collecting evidence and analyzing CCTV footage from scanning labs involved in the case. The child’s father has been asked to produce all relevant medical records, including scan reports.

An expert medical team from Thiruvananthapuram, led by Health Department Additional Director Dr. Meenakshi, examined the baby and consulted with the parents for over an hour. The team reviewed technical test results from the delivery and assessed the treatment options available for the child. They recommended that further treatment be arranged locally in Alappuzha.

The expert team, which assured the family of comprehensive care, will submit a detailed report to the Health Department. The government will decide on the next steps once the report is reviewed.

The investigation revealed discrepancies in the scanning reports from the Midas lab, where the mother underwent tests during her pregnancy. Two different signatures were identified on reports purportedly signed by radiologist Dr. Manoj Prabhakaran, raising suspicions of forgery.

The baby, born to Anish and Surumi of Lajanath Ward on November 8, suffers from multiple congenital disabilities, including misaligned ears and eyes, a non-functional mouth and curved limbs. Anish alleges that despite repeated scans, doctors did not detect or report any abnormalities during the pregnancy.

The parents expressed doubts about the authenticity of the reports, questioning whether they were prepared accurately by the lab. The police and medical teams are working to uncover the truth and ensure the child receives appropriate medical care.