BIZARRE! Chennai couple gave birth to a child at home by following the advice of a WhatsApp group
In a bizarre incident, a driver and his wife recently delivered their baby at home in Kundrathur, reportedly after following instructions from a WhatsApp group. According to reports, they relied completely on advice and visual guidance from a WhatsApp group with 1,024 members. They received a lot of attention from online users after they shared a picture with the newborn.
Health officials have expressed their concern over the incident, following which the police have launched an in-depth investigation into the incident. The married couple has been identified as a 36-year-old earthmover driver from Tiruvannamalai, who lived in a rented house in Nandambakkam with his 32-year-old wife and two daughters aged 8 and 4 years.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the man was an active member of a WhatsApp group called 'Home Birth Experience'. The group reportedly shared advice and photos on how to conduct a home delivery.
After Sukanya became pregnant for the third time, she decided not to go for a medical check-up during her pregnancy. According to the report, she suddenly started experiencing labor pains at home on November 17. However, instead of taking his wife to the hospital, her husband decided to attend the delivery himself.
Lis said that she followed the instructions of the said WhatsApp group, which regularly shared tips on home delivery. During the investigation, it was found that the man had a membership in the WhatsApp group. After the birth of the newborn, the public health officer of the area complained to the police station, stating that the man had violated the prescribed medical safety rules.
In response to the complaint, the police arrested the man for questioning. Police said the content of the group played a key role in influencing the couple's decision to have a home delivery. Health officials explained to her about the potential risks associated with home delivery, especially when unverified online information is relied upon instead of professional medical guidance. They also assured her that necessary medical assistance will be provided to both the mother and the baby. Meanwhile, Kundrathur police officials along with health department officials are now discussing legal action to curb such activities.
PC: news24online