In a significant crackdown on illegal medical practices, authorities in Salem district arrested two individuals on Tuesday for allegedly conducting prenatal sex determination tests on three expectant mothers. The operation, which underscores the ongoing battle against gender-biased sex selection, took place at a residence in Belur near Vazhapadi.
The Sting Operation and Arrest
The arrests followed a coordinated raid by a special medical team from the Salem district health services. Acting on a specific tip-off regarding illegal activities, the team, led by the joint director of health services, descended upon the suspect location in Belur. The two accused, identified as M Venkatesan (44) from Chinnasalem in Kallakurichi district and S Latha from Vilaripalayam in Salem district, were caught red-handed. They were allegedly in the process of conducting the banned tests using a portable ultrasound machine.
Legal Action and Handover to Police
Following their apprehension by the health department officials, the two suspects were formally handed over to the Vazhapadi police. The police have registered a case against them under the relevant sections of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994. This stringent law prohibits sex selection and the misuse of diagnostic techniques for determining the sex of a fetus. After the necessary legal procedures, both Venkatesan and Latha were placed under arrest.
Broader Implications and the Fight Against Sex Selection
This incident highlights a persistent and grave issue in parts of India, where a deep-seated preference for male children drives the demand for such illegal services. The PCPNDT Act was enacted precisely to curb this practice and prevent female feticide, which has led to a skewed sex ratio in several regions. Successful sting operations like the one in Salem are crucial for enforcement and act as a deterrent. They demonstrate the vigilance of health departments and the importance of community tip-offs in exposing clandestine networks that operate in violation of the law.
The case also serves as a stark reminder to medical practitioners and the public about the severe legal consequences of engaging in or seeking sex determination tests. Authorities continue to urge citizens to report any suspicious activities to help eradicate this social menace and protect the rights of the girl child.
