Investigation explores role of external surgeons, illegal facilities, and interstate network in alleged organ transplant case
SIT Questions Actual Location of Transplant
The investigation into the alleged kidney transplant racket in Mohali has taken a significant turn, with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) now suspecting that the transplant may not have been performed at the Kharar-based hospital initially under scrutiny.
Led by Superintendent of Police Manpreet Singh, the SIT is examining whether the procedure was conducted at another hospital or an external operation theatre facility. Investigators are also probing the possibility that even if the transplant occurred at the Kharar hospital, it may have been carried out with the assistance of an external transplant specialist.
ICU Facilities and Compliance Under Scanner
Officials have raised concerns about the hospital’s infrastructure and compliance with transplant protocols. While the facility reportedly has an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), its capability to meet pre- and post-transplant care standards remains under investigation.
The inquiry began after Dr. Rajesh Kumar, Senior Medical Officer of SDH Kharar, filed a complaint following a surprise inspection ordered by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate. The inspection allegedly revealed serious irregularities in hospital operations and patient care.
Donor and Recipient Found Without Medical Supervision
During the inspection, authorities discovered two individuals—believed to be a donor and a recipient—inside the ICU without professional medical supervision. Officials termed the situation highly irregular and indicative of possible violations of transplant norms.
A police team led by ASI Hardeep Singh later reached the hospital after receiving a written request near Desumajra Road. Two individuals present at the facility were questioned but failed to provide valid identification or a satisfactory explanation for their presence, raising suspicions of unauthorized medical activity.
Case Registered Under Organ Transplant Law
Police have registered a case under Sections 19 and 20 of the Transplantation of Human Organ Act, 1994, which deal with unauthorized organ removal and commercial dealings in human organs.
The hospital owner has been named as the primary accused but remains absconding despite multiple search operations.
Lack of Mandatory Approvals Raises Red Flags
Authorities confirmed that the hospital did not have the required permissions under the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994, to conduct kidney transplants. This has intensified concerns about how such a regulated and high-risk procedure was allegedly attempted.
The SIT is also investigating whether the hospital had set up the legally mandated evaluation committee, which includes transplant experts, a social worker, and a gazetted officer. This panel is essential to verify donor-recipient relationships and rule out commercial transactions.
Cross-Border Angle Emerges
Preliminary findings suggest that the alleged donor is a Nepali national, while the recipient hails from Rajasthan. This places the case under the “non-relative donor” category, which requires stricter approvals from district or state authorization committees.
Officials are also checking records with the civil surgeon’s office to determine whether any formal approval process was initiated.
Previous Cases Against Accused Doctor Under Review
Adding another layer to the investigation, the SIT is examining why the accused doctor’s medical licence was not revoked despite prior cases registered under the PCPNDT Act in 2018 and 2023.
Authorities reiterated that organ transplants must only be conducted in registered hospitals with prior approval from the designated authorization committees. Cases involving foreign donors require additional verification, including embassy clearance.
Hospital Sealed, Wider Network Suspected
The hospital premises in Kharar have been sealed, and officials confirmed that no further activities are being carried out at the site.
A detailed report will be submitted to the Punjab Medical Council and the Indian Medical Association after the SIT concludes its investigation.
Meanwhile, investigators have not ruled out the possibility of a larger interstate or cross-border organ trafficking network being involved in the racket.
