Key Takeaways:
- Maiti Nepal has called for an immediate investigation into allegations involving Nepali women in commercial surrogacy arrangements in India
- The appeal follows an investigative report by Dainik Bhaskar alleging cross-border recruitment through financial inducements
- The organisation says the allegations raise concerns about human trafficking, exploitation, consent and women's rights if verified.
- Maiti Nepal has urged authorities to provide legal, medical, psychosocial and rehabilitation support to any affected women
Maiti Nepal has called for an immediate investigation into allegations that economically and socially vulnerable Nepali women are being taken to India and involved in commercial surrogacy arrangements.
In a statement issued on Monday, the organisation expressed concern over an investigative report published by Indian news outlet Dainik Bhaskar, which alleged that women from various parts of Nepal were being recruited through intermediaries and financial incentives for commercial surrogacy arrangements in India.
Maiti Nepal said that if the allegations are substantiated, they would raise serious concerns related to human trafficking, exploitation, women's rights, and the issue of free and informed consent.
The organisation urged the governments and law enforcement agencies of Nepal and India, as well as the National Human Rights Commission, to conduct an immediate investigation into the claims. It also called for the identification of any networks that may be involved and stronger monitoring along the Nepal–India border.
Maiti Nepal further stressed that women who may have been exploited through such arrangements should be treated as victims requiring protection and support, rather than perpetrators.
The organisation recommended providing affected women with legal assistance, healthcare services, psychosocial counselling, safe repatriation where necessary, and long-term rehabilitation support.
Maiti Nepal said a thorough investigation is needed to establish the facts and ensure accountability if any form of trafficking or exploitation has occurred.