Maharashtra Health Minister Assures Strict Action After Thane Egg-Donation Racket Busted

Thane: The Maharashtra Health Minister has promised stringent action against those involved in an alleged egg-donation racket in Thane, following a police crackdown that exposed the exploitation of young women under the guise of fertility procedures.

The racket came to light after local police conducted a raid and uncovered an organised network that allegedly lured financially vulnerable women with promises of quick cash. According to investigators, victims were offered between ₹25,000 and ₹30,000 per egg-donation cycle. However, many were reportedly made to undergo repeated hormonal stimulation and egg retrieval procedures without proper medical supervision or adherence to

legal safeguards.

Allegations of Exploitation

Police officials stated that several women were repeatedly used as egg donors beyond medically permissible limits, putting their health at serious risk. Some victims have alleged that they were not fully informed about the physical and hormonal impact of the procedures, and that consent forms were either inadequately explained or misrepresented.

Medical experts note that egg donation involves hormonal injections and minor surgical procedures, which, if conducted frequently or without appropriate intervals, can lead to complications such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), infections, and long-term reproductive health issues.

Government Response

Reacting to the incident, the Maharashtra Health Minister said that the government would not tolerate any violation of assisted reproductive technology (ART) regulations. He assured that strict legal and administrative action would be taken against clinics, intermediaries, or medical professionals found complicit.

The Minister also directed the State Health Department to conduct a comprehensive review of fertility clinics and ART centres operating in and around Thane to ensure compliance with the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act and related guidelines.

Police Investigation Underway

Police have registered offences under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and provisions related to medical malpractice and human exploitation. Officials are examining financial transactions, clinic records, and consent documentation to determine the scale of the operation and identify additional victims.

Authorities are also probing whether similar rackets may be operating in other parts of Maharashtra.

The Health Department has urged women to report any suspicious activity related to egg donation and to verify the credentials of fertility clinics before undergoing procedures.

Further investigations are ongoing, and more arrests are expected as the probe expands.