Hyderabad, Nov 10 (PTI) Telangana Health Minister C Damodar Rajanarasimha on Tuesday directed officials to conduct a comprehensive investigation into alleged illegal oocyte (egg) collection in the state.
He told them to take stringent action against institutions and individuals found violating the prescribed regulations, an official release said.
Acting on the minister's directions, task force groups intensified inspections of IVF centres across the state. Of the 44 ART facilities identified in the state, the officials have so far completed inspections at 27 centres, it said.
During these inspections, 13 regulatory violations were detected in seven hospitals and show-cause notices have already been issued to the managements of the respective hospitals. Inspections at the remaining facilities are currently underway, it said.
Further action will be initiated after thoroughly examining the records seized by the police and the information to be received from the National ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) and Surrogacy Registry.
Women identified in connection with the case and the roles of doctors, IVF centres and intermediaries are being investigated, it said.
As part of the detailed investigation, health officials visited the National ART and Surrogacy Registry in New Delhi on November 6 and sought data reported by registered ART clinics and banks in Telangana.
The health department warned that collecting oocytes from women should follow the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act and Rules.
All ART clinics and ART banks operating in the state must obtain mandatory statutory registration and strictly comply with the prescribed regulations.
The department has advised women not to fall prey to misleading assurances and financial inducements offered by intermediaries that may expose them to unauthorised medical procedures.
The release urged people to report any suspected illegal activities of such nature to the concerned District Medical and Health Officer.
Police here on October 31 busted an alleged illegal human oocyte (egg) extraction and commercial sale racket in the city, arresting eight persons and rescuing 43 women.
The accused allegedly recruited women from West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and other states, transported them to Hyderabad and sheltered them for egg donation procedures at IVF and fertility centres.
