Cuttack, Apr 27: Cuttack’s SCB Medical College and Hospital has come under intense scrutiny after allegations surfaced that 16 newborn babies went missing between 2019 and 2025 from its maternity and gynecology department. The shocking revelations have prompted the Central RDC to order a detailed investigation, directing the hospital superintendent to submit a comprehensive report.

According to reports, many of the missing infants were born to destitute or mentally challenged women admitted to the hospital. Activists allege that instead of being placed under the supervision of the District Child Protection Unit, as mandated by the Juvenile Justice Act 2015, the infants were neither registered with the Cuttack Municipal Corporation nor accounted for in hospital records. This has fueled suspicions that the babies may have been trafficked or sold.

District Child Protection Officer Pragati Mohanty confirmed that while two of the missing infants were reported dead, there is no official record of the remaining 14. She emphasized that the hospital authorities have failed to provide adequate documentation, raising serious concerns about negligence and possible foul play.

#Cuttack: The Revenue Divisional Commissioner (Central) has ordered a detailed inquiry into allegations of 14 missing infants from SCB Medical College and Hospital, directing authorities to submit a report and take action as per law.#Odisha

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— Argus News (@ArgusNews_in) April 27, 2026

Social activist and RTI campaigner Achyuta Sahu has alleged the existence of a larger racket behind the disappearances. He claims that vulnerable women’s children were systematically taken away without proper oversight, and has demanded a thorough probe by the state government. In letters addressed to the Chief Secretary, Health Secretary, Women and Child Development Department, and RDC, Sahu urged immediate intervention to uncover the truth and ensure accountability.

Also Read: Odia Youth Saves Two Nepalese Women from Kolkata Trafficking Racket

The RDC’s directive calls for a full-scale investigation into the allegations, with instructions to pursue legal action if evidence of trafficking or malpractice is found. The case has already sparked widespread outrage, with child rights groups demanding transparency and strict enforcement of protective laws.

Meanwhile, SCB Medical authorities have remained silent, offering no official response to the allegations. The absence of clarity has only deepened public concern, as Odisha’s largest government hospital faces questions about its role in safeguarding vulnerable mothers and infants.

As the probe unfolds, the incident has created shockwaves across the state, highlighting the
urgent need for stronger monitoring mechanisms in healthcare institutions. The coming weeks areexpected to reveal whether this is a case of administrative negligence or a deeper criminal conspiracy.