Baripada, May 13: In a shocking incident, a man allegedly attempted to sell his seven-month-old son for Rs 30,000 to fund his drinking addiction in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district. The incident was reported from Chandabila village under Baripada Sadar police limits.

The accused, identified as Ratan Kisku of Karamaghutu village under Morada police station area, had reportedly brought the infant to Chandabila village to hand over the child to another family in exchange for money. However, locals grew suspicious after he failed to give a proper explanation for bringing the baby there.

Sensing foul play, family members of the prospective buyer confronted him, following which the accused abandoned the child and fled from the spot.

On being informed, Anganwadi and ASHA workers reached the village and alerted the CDPO and police. Baripada Sadar police later rescued the infant and took the child into protective custody.

The baby was shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital in Baripada for a medical examination and was later sent to a child care institution. The incident has triggered concern and outrage in the area.