DNA Profiling Tackles Unethical Practices in Fertility Cases

Quick Summary

• DNA Profiling for ART Concerns: Truth Labs chairman Gandhi P.C. Kaza suggested DNA profiling as a reliable and affordable method to address unethical practices in Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) like IVF. He highlighted its role in verifying biological parenthood with 99% accuracy amid concerns over sperm sample switching and disguised surrogacy-related trafficking cases.

• Recent Fraud Cases: Instances such as the Srushti clinic case have revealed misconduct where private clinics allegedly provided babies born via surrogates, raising alarms about the ethicality of ART services.

• Majority Private Clinics: Prasad Hospitals Director Suma Prasad stated that over 80% of ART procedures are performed by private hospitals, which should adhere to guidelines set by the National ART Registry and undergo audits managed by District Medical and Health offices.

• Regulatory Gaps: Despite Indian Council of Medical Research’s consent form guidelines for ARTs, ther is no dedicated agency to guide prospective parents in evaluating or selecting trustworthy clinics for fertility treatments.

• Support Initiative Announced: Truth Labs partnered with Genome Foundation to offer free consultation on precautions related to ARTs. The collaboration extends support through forensic assistance from Truth Labs and STR profiling from Genome Foundation, aimed at couples seeking ethical options in fertility treatment and solutions for rare diseases.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The proposal of DNA profiling as an accountability tool in IVF procedures highlights rising concerns around ethics within India’s growing Assisted Reproductive Technology industry. With nearly 80% reliance on private clinics offering these services, systematic checks are vital but evidently insufficient, given recent reports of malpractice such as sperm switching or surrogate trafficking scandals.

While regulations like mandatory consent forms under ICMR exist, thier real-world enforcement appears inadequate without stringent audits or a central agency overseeing compliance across private institutions. This gap creates vulnerability not only for aspiring parents but also undermines trust in healthcare providers handling sensitive infertility cases-a public health issue intertwined with emotional well-being.

The collaboration between Truth Labs and Genome Foundation offers proactive steps toward empowering couples through forensic verification options tailored to their circumstances. However, broader institutional reforms addressing clarity mechanisms could emerge as key takeaways if policymakers review such news critically. Addressing fraud prevention would also reinforce India’s reputation amidst global advancements in reproductive sciences while safeguarding individual rights at domestic levels.Read more: Published August 19, 2025