'Suspend license if any newborn is trafficked': SC talks tough over child trafficking, lays strict guidelines
PTC News Desk: The Supreme Court came down heavily on Uttar Pradesh government over mishandling the matter child trafficking cases and laid down stringent guidelines to be followed by states to prevent such offences.
A bench comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan directed the lower courts to complete the trials in such cases within a time frame of six months. The court also directed the authorities to suspend the licenses of such hospitals where any newborn is trafficked.
"High Courts across the country are directed to call for the status of pending trials in child trafficking cases. Then directions shall be issued to complete the trial in 6 months and also conduct a day-to-day trial," the top court said.
The Supreme Court's remarks came while the bench was hearing a case where trafficked baby was delivered to a couple in Uttar Pradesh who wanted a son. The accused were granted anticipatory bail by the Allahabad High Court.
"The accused was longing for a son and then got a son for Rs 4 lakh. If you desire a son... you cannot go for a trafficked child. He knew that the baby was stolen," the bench said.
- PTC NEWS
