Guwahati, Nov 5: Nagaon police have busted a kidney-selling racket in Hooj Kaibarta village, leading to the arrest of three people on Tuesday.
The accused have been identified as Deep Das, Dharoni Das alias Bogamula, and Mahendra Das.
Nagaon Senior Superintendent of Police Swapnanil Deka said that an operation carried out over the past few days unearthed the entire network of the organ transplant racket, which has reportedly been active in the area for several years.
“The practice first came to light in 2021 when six to seven villagers secretly sold their kidneys through brokers. The issue subsided for some time after concerned residents intervened, but it has reportedly resurfaced in recent months. Those who tried to stop the illegal trade faced threats and intimidation,” said a source.
Villagers claimed that many residents were lured by promises of quick money and a better life. Brokers allegedly targeted people in financial distress and arranged buyers through unverified medical networks outside the district.
Reports indicate that a significant section of the village population has already sold their kidneys.
Studies have identified poverty as the primary reason behind kidney selling. Economic hardship and the desire to escape poverty are consistently observed as key drivers behind such practices.
“Globally, demand for kidneys has surpassed supply from both living and deceased donors. The high demand relative to availability has made the kidney one of the most saleable human organs,” notes a study published in the Global Public Health journal.
