Agartala: Tripura chief minister Manik Saha has called for a detailed report from the chief secretary of the state regarding an incident involving a tribal woman from Dhalai district, who sold her new born baby due to extreme poverty.
The woman, a resident of Taraban Colony in Gandacherra sub-division under Dhalai district of Tripura, gave birth to a daughter at home on May 22.
The following day, she reportedly sold the child to a couple in Hezamara for Rs 5000.
This distressing action came after the recent death of her husband left her in severe financial hardship.
As soon as the news spread on social media, the local administration intervened, retrieved the baby, and returned her to her mother.
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“Child selling was a common occurrence during the previous regime. Now, it has suddenly happened in a district where the government allocates an extra 10 percent of development funds for welfare. Such an incident should not have occurred,” said Tripura CM Manik Saha.
He added: “The administration has recovered the new born and returned her to her mother. Financial assistance has also been provided to the family.”
The Tripura CM further said that the current government is committed to the welfare of the people and has requested a thorough investigation into the matter.
“There may be issues, but we always strive to resolve people’s problems. We must launch a social awareness program to educate the public. The government will take all necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future,” he stated.
The Tripura chief minister also accused the opposition of attempting to politicize the issue.