Mother and Daughter Arrested for Stealing Newborn from West Bengal Hospital

Introduction

In a shocking incident in Burdwan, West Bengal, local police have arrested a woman and her daughter for allegedly stealing a newborn from Burdwan Medical College and Hospital. Authorities confirmed that the child has been safely returned to his family.

The Theft

The newborn, just 18 days old, was at the hospital with his mother, Selefah Khatun, for a routine check-up in the outdoor children’s ward. The mother and her own mother were seated on the maternity ward veranda when an unknown woman approached, requesting to hold the infant.

Without warning, the woman, later identified as Rinki Khatun (alias Rumki Khatun), snatched the baby and fled. The infant’s mother immediately raised an alarm, prompting a hospital and police response.

Investigation and Arrest

News of the abduction quickly spread through local media, drawing the attention of residents in the suspect’s neighborhood. Suspicious of the baby being held by Rinki Khatun, neighbors alerted authorities, leading the Burdwan Police to a rented residence in Uttarpara, Khagragarh area.

Upon arrival, officers found the child safe in the custody of Rinki Khatun and her mother, Minira Bibi, and arrested both women on child theft charges.

“Khatun initially tried to mislead the neighbors, but their vigilance helped recover the baby promptly,” said a senior police officer.

Baby Reunited with Family

Following the rescue, the infant was returned to the maternity ward of Burdwan Medical College, where he was reunited with his relieved family. The police have confirmed that the reason behind the abduction is under investigation.

Police Statement

A senior officer stated:

“We are looking into the motive behind the crime. Such incidents highlight the need for vigilance in hospital premises to prevent child abduction.”

Authorities have assured that strict action will be taken to prevent similar cases and maintain hospital security for newborns and patients.