Hyderabad: The Telangana Health, Medical and Family Welfare Department has confirmed legal violations and enforcement action in the illegal surrogacy case involving Universal Srushti Fertility Centre in Hyderabad.
In a rejoinder issued July 28, the department said the clinic was operating without valid registrations under the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021. The clarification follows multiple media reports on an illegal surrogacy and trafficking racket run by the centre, also known as Srushti Test Tube Baby Centre.
Joint Raid Finds Multiple Violations
A multi-agency search and seizure operation took place on July 26, led by North Zone DCP and involving police, task force, DM&HO, and RDO.
The raid followed a complaint from a couple who alleged deception by the clinic’s Vizag branch. DNA tests revealed no biological link to the baby provided under a claimed surrogacy procedure. The couple reported threats and denial of documents when they demanded accountability.
Inspectors found the clinic’s registrations under the Clinical Establishments Act and PCPNDT Act had expired. Unregistered ultrasound machines, unlicensed pharmaceuticals, an illegally functioning OT with IVF and laparoscopic tools, and active oocyte retrieval logs were confiscated.
Clinic Operated Despite Closure Orders
Authorities also found that the facility continued functioning despite previous closure notices. It allegedly forged documents using the names of authorised doctors. All medical instruments, drugs, patient records, and surrogacy documentation were handed to police for further investigation.
The Health Department confirmed that relevant criminal cases have been filed and further action will depend on the investigation’s outcome.
381 Legal ART Facilities in Telangana
The department reiterated that Telangana has 381 officially registered ART and Surrogacy clinics 379 private and two public. It urged citizens to use only certified centres listed on official state and national portals.
Authorities emphasised that strict enforcement of the ART & Surrogacy Regulation Act is ongoing and warned against unauthorised fertility practices.
Official portals for registered clinics:
