Steps taken to stop illegal kidney transplantation: Odisha min

Admitting that a case of illegal kidney transplantation has been detected in the state, the Odisha government today said it was taking appropriate steps to stop monetary deals behind such alleged activities.
"One such case of kidney transplantation has come to notice of the state government where permission was availed from the Authorisation Committee by production of fake documents," health and family welfare minister Atanu S Nayak told the Assembly while replying to an adjournment debate in the Assembly.
The issue relating to alleged illegal kidney transplantation was discussed in the Assembly with the opposition Congress demanding stern action against those involved in such activities.

"There is racket involved in illegal kidney transplantation in the state," alleged Congress Chief Whip Tara Prasad Bahinipati.
Holding the state government responsible for the illegal trade, Bahinipati took a dig at the government for its inaction and inability in busting the well-organised racket.
To stop such unethical and illegal practices, he suggested that the state government consider opening a kidney bank in the state and simplify kidney transplantation rules.

Rejecting the opposition's claims, the minister said there has been no illegal kidney transplantation racket thriving in the state as alleged by the Congress members.
Nayak said his department has received a total of 596 applications for kidney transplantation since 2002 and while permission was been granted for 554 cases, 42 applications have been rejected.

The minister said there was a eight-member Authorisation Committee headed by the director, medical education and training which verifies the applications for allowing kidney transplantation.
"We are taking steps to totally stop monetary deals between donors and recipients if any," the minister said.
Replying a question, Nayak said the police have also arrested some people allegedly involved in the illegal kidney transplantation activities.