Illegal abortion racket resurfaces in Surat’s Mamta Hospital, repeat offender absconding

A suspected illegal abortion and foeticide racket has been uncovered in Surat, with authorities sealing a private facility in the Varachha area following a raid by the health department.

The investigation was carried out at Mamta Multi-Speciality Hospital in Varachha, where a team led by Chief District Health Officer Dr Anil Patel conducted a surprise inspection on the premises.

Three pregnant women were found at the facility, allegedly seeking illegal abortions. During the raid, a 24-year-old woman from Vyara reportedly fled the premises, while two others were shifted to Civil Hospital for further care.

Authorities have identified Ramgopal Khandelwal, a pharmacist by qualification, as the alleged mastermind behind the operation. Officials said he had previously been arrested in 2025 in connection with illegal abortion activities at another facility in Varachha and was later released on bail.

Investigators alleged that Khandelwal resumed similar activities by operating under the name of the newly established hospital. A staff member at the facility is reported to have told officials that he personally conducted procedures on patients.

Following the raid, the health department sealed the hospital premises with immediate effect.

Varachha Police has registered a case against Khandelwal under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act (PC&PNDT Act), and efforts are under way to trace and arrest him.