Fortis Hospital

Article · 4 min read

What Happens If I Sell My Kidney?

The legal, health and financial consequences of selling a kidney — none of them worth it.

Last updated: 24/9/2026

Selling a kidney exposes you to criminal prosecution, unsafe surgery, and a very high chance of being cheated out of the promised money.

It is illegal in India

You would be committing a criminal offence under THOTA, punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and fines up to ₹1 crore.

Health and financial reality

Illegal surgery is often performed in unsafe conditions with no follow-up care, and the promised payment is frequently never made. You would lose a kidney and likely gain nothing.

The alternative

Lawful donation to a loved one, or lawful financial and social support, are the safe paths.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do people actually get paid for selling a kidney?

Usually not — most are cheated, and all are committing a crime.

Sources

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This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor about your specific condition.

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