India’s Health Secretary, Apurva Chandra, has raised concerns about potential violations in organ or tissue transplantation involving foreign nationals. In a written communication, Mr. Chandra alerted the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and sought support to establish robust monitoring systems to prevent any illicit commercial dealings in transplantation.
The Health Ministry noted a significant number of foreign nationals coming to India for various organ transplantations, either as recipients or donors, often arriving on medical/attendant visas. The alert follows a recent media report highlighting uncertainties in establishing the authenticity of documents related to donor-recipient relationships, identity, and proof of residence.
In a letter dated January 30 to Vinay Kwatra, Foreign Secretary, MEA, Mr. Chandra outlined provisions specific to foreigners under the Transplantation of Human Organ and Tissues Act (THOTA), 1994. The Health Ministry has requested the dissemination of these rules to all embassies/missions of foreign countries in India and relevant government authorities if the embassy/mission is not present in India. The aim is to enhance scrutiny and ensure the transparency and legality of organ transplantation processes involving foreign nationals in the country.
