Karnataka's Health and Family Welfare Minister, Dinesh Gundu Rao, has issued a strong call for the regulation of portable ultrasound scanning machines. This move aims to close a significant loophole in the ongoing battle against female foeticide and illegal sex determination in the state.
Minister's Statement in Legislative Council
The minister made these remarks on 16 December 2025 while responding to a pointed question in the Karnataka Legislative Council. The query was raised by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of the Legislative Council (MLC), C T Ravi, who sought details on the persistent issue of female foeticides.
In his reply, Minister Rao acknowledged a troubling reality. He stated that despite the existence of various laws and regulations, such as the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, advancing technology is being misused. He specifically highlighted how portable and easily concealable ultrasound devices are helping people illegally determine the sex of an unborn child, thereby facilitating sex-selective abortions.
The Technology Challenge
The core of the problem, as outlined by the minister, lies in the nature of modern medical equipment. Traditional, large ultrasound machines installed in registered clinics are easier for authorities to monitor and regulate. However, the proliferation of compact, portable ultrasound scanners presents a new and formidable challenge.
These devices are not only more affordable but also highly mobile, making them difficult to track. They can be easily transported and used in unregistered settings, away from the scrutiny of health officials. This technological shift is undermining decades of effort to curb the deeply rooted practice of female foeticide, which has led to a skewed sex ratio in several parts of the country.
Path Forward and Implications
Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao's call for action signals a potential new phase in Karnataka's enforcement strategy. The proposed regulation would likely focus on stricter licensing, mandatory registration, and enhanced tracking of the sale and distribution of all ultrasound machines, with special emphasis on portable models.
This development underscores a critical need to update legal frameworks to keep pace with technological advancements. The state government's initiative, if implemented effectively, could set a precedent for other states grappling with similar issues. It represents a direct attempt to plug a regulatory gap that has been exploited, ensuring that technology serves public health rather than perpetuating social harm.
The minister's statement has reignited a crucial conversation on gender equality, medical ethics, and the role of regulation in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
