Ajit, a one-and-a-half-month-old baby, has been admitted to the local hospital in the Shahdol district of Madhya Pradesh for the treatment of pneumonia. While being treated, doctors discovered burn marks on him, raising an alarm. Forty scars from burns were found on various parts of the infant's body. It was later revealed that the baby boy had undergone harsh and distressing traditional treatment for his illness. The traditional birth attendant, known as 'Daai,' misguided the treatment, and the infant was branded with a hot iron rod 40 times in an attempt to cure his illness in the Shahdol district of Madhya Pradesh on November 4. This traditional treatment is still practiced in India, particularly in tribal districts. Subsequently, the baby's condition worsened, prompting the parents to seek medical help and admit the infant to a local medical hospital.
As per the reports, 40 scars were found on the baby's stomach, back, neck, and other body parts. The statement of Mother Betlwati Baiga was recorded by the local police. The case is registered against Daai, Booti Bai Baiga, Mother, Betlwati Baiga, and Grandfather, Rajani Baiga, under the relevant sections of the Indian penal code and the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act. As per the doctor's report, the infant is recovering well, and his condition is stable.
(Input from various media sources)
(Rehash/Dr. Bittu Babulalji Agrawal PT)
