The Gurugram Health Department successfully busted an illegal fetal sex determination racket operating in Uttar Pradesh's Bijnor district. Acting on a confidential tip-off, the department conducted a coordinated raid and apprehended a female mediator and an unqualified ultrasound operator.
Investigation and Decoy Operation
Dr Lokveer Singh, Chief Medical Officer of Gurugram, authorized the PCPNDT nodal officer Dr Devendra Singh Solanki and medical officer Dr Harish Kumar to investigate the matter. The probe revealed that pregnant women from Gurugram and nearby areas were being transported to Bijnor for illegal fetal sex determination. A woman identified as Renu allegedly charged between Rs 25,000 and Rs 40,000 for the service.
The health department formed a special team and selected a pregnant woman as a decoy customer. Renu demanded Rs 25,000 for the procedure. After receiving an advance payment online, she arranged for the decoy's travel from New Delhi to Bijnor.
Raids and Arrests
It was found that fetal sex determination was being carried out through illegal ultrasounds using a portable ultrasound machine at a private house in Bijnor. A joint team from the Gurugram and Bijnor health departments raided the premises and arrested Renu and the ultrasound operator, Manoj Kumar. The investigation revealed that Kumar did not possess the legal qualifications required to perform ultrasounds. Local police were called to the spot, and both accused were handed over for further legal action.
Dr Singh stated that the department would continue its campaign against fetal sex determination and female foeticide. He added that strict action would be taken against anyone found violating the PCPNDT Act. The operation underscores the commitment of health authorities to curb illegal practices and protect the rights of unborn children.
