Illegal Sex Determination Racket Exposed in Jalna
In a shocking revelation from Maharashtra's Jalna district, authorities have uncovered an illegal sex determination centre operating from an unlikely location - a cattle shed. The raid, conducted on Wednesday, led to the arrest of two individuals who were caught red-handed while conducting the prohibited tests.
The Sting Operation and Arrests
According to officials, the illegal operation was busted following a tip-off about suspicious activities taking place in the rural area. The two arrested include the owner of a local pathology lab and a Class 12 pass youth who were actively involved in conducting the sex determination tests when authorities raided the premises.
The makeshift clinic was set up in a cattle shed, demonstrating the lengths to which operators of such illegal facilities go to avoid detection. The location was deliberately chosen to blend with rural surroundings and avoid suspicion from authorities and local residents alike.
Ongoing Battle Against Female Foeticide
This incident highlights the persistent challenge authorities face in combating illegal sex determination practices despite strict laws and regular crackdowns. The Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act strictly prohibits sex determination tests in India to prevent female foeticide.
Maharashtra has been particularly vigilant about enforcing these laws, given the state's skewed child sex ratio in certain districts. The Jalna case represents another victory in the ongoing battle against illegal practices that contribute to gender imbalance.
Authorities have confirmed that investigations are continuing to determine how long the illegal centre had been operating and whether more people were involved in the racket. The use of a cattle shed as cover demonstrates the evolving tactics used by operators of such illegal facilities to avoid detection.
