Male infant ''exchanged'' with female in MP hospital

Khandwa, MP, June 18 (UNI) The alleged exchange of a male infant with a female one at the local Government District Women's Hospital is proving a puzzle for the police who will even have a DNA test conducted if necessary.

Police said that one Teejabai hailing from nearby Dongargaon village lodged a complaint that her daughter-in-law Keertibai gave birth to a boy on June 16, whom she ''saw,'' though a nurse and maid later handed Teejabai a girl. The hospital administration denied any such irregularity.

''The infant was exchanged shortly after delivery, while I went out of the labour room to get some clothes for my grandson. I was not craving for a grandson but want the truth to emerge and am ready for a probe at any level,'' alleged Teejabai.

The hospital's Civil Surgeon R C Panika said that the dispute was caused by the woman's misunderstanding. The facility's administration was ready to bear the expense for a DNA test.

''No irregularity took place. It is Keertibai's first child,'' said Nurse Madhuri Chakor who assisted the delivery. Sihada village's Kshmabai was also admitted along with Keertibai. Ms Chakor explained that Keertibai gave birth to a girl at 1620 hrs while a boy was born to the other woman five minutes later.

Kshmabai, who is also prepared for any probe, claimed that she observed Keertibai giving birth to a girl. Keertibai was senseless during delivery.

UNI