Bihar police arrest parents, buyer in infant trafficking case

Authorities in Motihari, a town in East Champaran district in Bihar, have launched a criminal investigation into a case of infant trafficking after a newborn was allegedly sold by its parents for a small sum of money.

Police said they arrested the parents of the child, the buyer, and an ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) worker who facilitated the transaction. The newborn was recovered and placed in official custody following a tip-off that led to the intervention.

The case has drawn attention to the continued prevalence of human trafficking and exploitation of vulnerable families in the region. Authorities did not disclose the exact amount exchanged or provide additional details about the circumstances that led to the illegal sale.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing, with police examining the roles of each accused party in the transaction. Child welfare officials have also been engaged in the case to ensure the infant's well-being and determine its future care arrangements.

The incident underscores persistent gaps in child protection mechanisms across parts of Bihar despite various government schemes and awareness campaigns aimed at preventing such trafficking.