Guwahati: A shocking blood-selling racket has been uncovered at the Gauhati Medical College Hospital (GMCH) in Assam, revealing a complex network of brokers and illegal donors. The scandal came to light when an HIV-positive individual was intercepted while attempting to sell blood, prompting an extensive investigation into the illicit trade.
Reports indicate that several youths from the Dhubri and Mankachar regions had been selling blood at GMCH for approximately Rs 2,000 per unit. The situation escalated with the apprehension of two brokers involved in the operation, one of whom, Lalbahadur Sheikh, has since been detained. The second broker, who confessed to his role in the sale of blood for profit, was found to be HIV-positive and had donated blood at GMCH just a month prior, potentially endangering numerous lives.
The GMCH security team intercepted the HIV-positive man during his latest attempt to sell blood. In questioning, he expressed ignorance about his health status, stating, “I did not know. Believe me, I would never do such a thing if I was aware.” This marked his second attempt to sell blood for money.
GMCH Superintendent Abhishek Sarma addressed the media, explaining the hospital’s blood screening procedures. He noted that while immediate refusals are not possible during the donation process, all donated blood undergoes rigorous testing for conditions like HIV. “When we discovered his status during a previous donation attempt on August 24, the blood was discarded, and the individual was reported to the authorities,” Sarma explained.
Sarma highlighted the urgent need for increased public awareness regarding proper blood donation protocols and called for stricter law enforcement measures to combat such illegal activities. While acknowledging public concerns about the time it takes to access blood at the hospital, he reiterated the importance of prioritizing safety over expedience. “We could have put the reactive blood up for donation, but safety procedures are our priority,” he emphasized.
As the investigation continues, authorities have turned their attention to Yunus Ali, an alleged key figure coordinating the blood sales. Sheikh reportedly received a call from Ali, promising payment for a transaction. Law enforcement has launched a manhunt to apprehend Ali and dismantle the network involved in the illegal blood trade at GMCH.