Sir,

Ever since I took up residence in Mysuru nearly 20 years ago, I have been subscribing to Star of Mysore. The coverage of local news and the Abracadabra column which amuses, provokes, educates and also thought-provoking has kept me hooked to SOM. Of late, a news item which keeps popping up with unfailing regularity, tucked inside the paper, has caught my attention and has set me thinking with growing concern. The news of persons ‘MISSING’ from Mysuru City has been growing at an alarming rate. It has not been given the attention it deserves.

If one were to analyse the persons missing, one would find a sinister pattern — those missing are usually people from the lower strata of society who do not have the right connections or enough money for people back home to pursue the matter. And the issue is lost sight off. After all, public memory is short lived.

One wonders what could be the cause? Could there be a mafia behind the missing persons who are selectively targeted for “ORGAN HARVESTING?” One never knows in these highly commercialised days.

I am tempted to recall a book titled “Red Market” authored by Scott Carney, an investigative journalist who has extensively researched and written the book. He goes on the trail of the world’s organ brokers, bone thieves, blood farmers and child traffickers. He travels extensively the length and breadth of India on his trail. Unfortunately, the book did not receive the   media hype and popularity it richly deserved.

One is also tempted to recall Robin Cook’s medical thriller, “Coma” which was also brought out by Hollywood which ran to packed houses the world over. It showed up the murky side of organ harvesting.

Through this column may I draw the attention of the authorities concerned and the powers that be to SIT UP and take the matter seriously for a tehelka-type investigation? In a few years time I too  would be joining the sweltering ranks of senior citizens in Mysuru.

– N. Parimalam, Income Tax Officer, Nazarbad, 6.4.2017