Udaipur hospital baby swap sparks outrage; families demand DNA test, hospital forms inquiry committee

JAIPUR: A shocking case of a baby swap by nursing staff has come to light in Udaipur's government maternity hospital, raising serious questions about hospital procedures and societal attitudes toward gender. Anita Rawat, a resident of Miranagar, Udaipur, and Rameshwari Soni, a resident of Chittorgarh, gave birth to two babies, a boy and a girl, on Wednesday in the same hospital. However, only an hour and a half later, the staff informed both mothers that the babies had been exchanged, leaving the families in shock. Sunil Rawat, Anitas husband, said, The staff congratulated us on the birth of a son, but an hour later, they took our baby and handed over a girl. The doctors didnt even recognize the real child. The staff must be held accountable for their negligence. The situation has become more disturbing when Rameshwari Sonis family similarly claimed their son and both families refused to accept the girl child, citing that they already have daughters. The incident has sparked outrage, highlighting the persistent preference for sons despite government campaigns promoting gender equality. Adding to the irony, the case surfaced during Diwali, when the nation worships Goddess Lakshmi, the symbol of prosperity even as this newborn girl struggles to find acceptance. The hospital, named after the legendary Panna Dhay, a historical heroine known for her sacrifice, has come under intense scrutiny. Both families have filed written complaints with the police and demanded a DNA test to determine the babies parentage. Doctors said the DNA report may take about 15 days. However a day after the incident MB Hospital Superintendent Dr. R.L. Suman stated on Thursday that after a thorough examination, the identity of each newborn and their respective mother was confirmed. The parents later agreed to the findings. As a result, Anita Rawat, was handed her daughter, while Rameshwari Soni, received her son. Suman explained that the identification process included examining the babies blood groups, the mothers sonography reports, the date and time of birth, and other relevant factors, which collectively confirmed each mothers child. The parents expressed satisfaction with the verification process. A committee has been formed to investigate the hospitals negligence. Dr. Suman added that the DNA test report will be available in approximately 15 days, and parents may choose to wait for the results before finalizing the matter. The investigation committee, constituted under the instructions of RNT Medical College Principal Dr. Vipin Mathur, will examine the lapses and negligence that led to the incident. Appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible once the report is submitted. Yogendra Vyas, CI of Hathipol police station, told the media, The baby was accidentally exchanged due to a misunderstanding. The hospital has complete delivery records, but the families are suspicious. A DNA test will clarify the matter, and the report is expected in 15 days. Meanwhile, families should consider the child as theirs as per hospital records.