Chennai couple delivers baby with WhatsApp group instructions, police investigate, ET HealthWorld
New Delhi: A man and his wife recently delivered their child at home in Kundrathur, relying solely on advice from a WhatsApp group with over 1,000 members, which led to both online attention and concern from health authorities. The incident has prompted an investigation by the police, according to a TOI report.
Manoharan, a 36-year-old earthmover operator from Tiruvannamalai, and his wife Sukanya, 32, live in a rented house in Nandambakkam, near Kundrathur. The couple already has two daughters, aged 8 and 4.
As per TOI, preliminary investigations reveal that Manoharan was part of a WhatsApp group called ‘Home Birth Experiences,’ where members regularly posted advice and illustrations related to home deliveries. When Sukanya became pregnant with their third child, she opted not to seek any medical check-ups during her pregnancy.
On November 17, when Sukanya unexpectedly went into labour, Manoharan decided to assist in the delivery himself, relying on the information from the WhatsApp group, rather than taking her to the hospital, police officials shared.
After the birth, the area’s Public Health Officer lodged a complaint with the Kundrathur police station, citing that Manoharan’s actions violated medical safety regulations. A police team soon questioned him and discovered his membership in the WhatsApp group. They found that the group contained detailed discussions and instructions on how to conduct home births.
Health authorities explained to Manoharan the significant risks involved in home births, especially when relying on unverified online advice instead of professional medical guidance. Local health officials assured him that the necessary medical support would be provided for both the mother and the newborn. The police, along with health department officials, are now exploring potential legal action to address the spread of such unverified practices.
Inputs from TOI
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