Article Today, Hyderabad:
Illegal practices at several fertility centres like Srushti Fertility Centre in Hyderabad are raising alarm across the medical community. While some clinics operate with proper licenses, many others reportedly violate regulations and exploit childless couples. Shocking claims suggest that some government medical officials are actively supporting these centres for bribes, turning a blind eye to the violations.
Bribes Behind the Clinics
Sources allege that owners of several fertility clinics are paying lakhs of rupees to certain health officers for protection. As a result, inspections are either avoided or manipulated. One clinic owner openly admitted to paying bribes, stating that this support allows centres to operate without fear of legal action. Currently, Hyderabad has nearly 180 fertility centres, but a significant number reportedly ignore the legal guidelines.
‘Srushti’ at the Centre of Controversy
The ‘Srushti Fertility Centre’, run by Dr Namrata under Universal Hospitals, has become a symbol of this deep-rooted problem. Despite multiple complaints and earlier police action, the centre allegedly continued operations with official backing. Critics say certain authorities were fully aware of the centre’s misconduct and yet provided it with permissions and protection.
A Tarnished Record
Dr Namrata had earlier faced arrest. The Medical Council of India even cancelled her license following a probe. However, she is believed to have resumed practice under the licenses of other doctors. Presently, the fertility treatments at the Srushti Centre are carried out in their names, not hers. In another related case, a test tube baby centre in KPHB was also found violating surrogacy regulations.
Case Unfolds Daily
The Srushti case is developing rapidly. As police dig deeper, more disturbing facts are emerging. Investigators have identified at least two people who played key roles in the alleged scam. The original complaints go back five years, when officials first raided the centre and sealed it. Even after her license was revoked, Namrata reportedly continued similar operations through branches in Andhra Pradesh and other states.
A New Name, Same Game
Following the closure of her Secunderabad centre, Namrata took a brief pause. Later, she acquired a new license in another doctor’s name. She shifted operations to her residence and appointed two assistants. Under this setup, she allegedly resumed the illegal fertility and surrogacy business. Police claim that her methods remained unchanged—only the names on the paperwork had altered.
Authorities Look the Other Way
Despite all these developments, officials failed to take timely action. While the centre ran unchecked, Namrata even appeared on television shows and advertisements promoting fertility services. Medical experts question why regulators failed to intervene, especially when she operated so openly. Some officials now claim they are not responsible, a stance that is drawing widespread condemnation.
Medical Community Speaks Out
Senior doctors and activists express deep concern over the silence of the health authorities. They argue that turning a blind eye amounts to complicity. When those entrusted with regulating medical ethics offer protection to violators, they say, the credibility of the entire system collapses. The ‘Srushti’ episode, they warn, is just the tip of the iceberg.
