In a significant crackdown on illegal prenatal sex determination, three doctors have been arrested in Mandya district, Karnataka. The arrests were made following a raid conducted by the health department and local authorities based on a tip-off. The accused are Dr Divya Chetana, who runs Chetana Maternity Centre, Dr Harshit of Navi Diagnostic Centre, and Dr Harish of Kushal Diagnostic Centre, all located in K R Pet taluk.
Details of the Arrest
The doctors were apprehended on charges of conducting sex determination tests, which are strictly prohibited under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act. The act aims to prevent sex-selective abortion and address the declining child sex ratio in the country. The accused were produced before a local court and have been remanded to judicial custody.
Legal Implications
Violation of the PCPNDT Act can lead to imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of up to Rs 50,000. Repeat offenders face stricter penalties. The authorities have emphasized that such illegal practices contribute to gender imbalance and must be curbed with stringent action.
The health department has launched a statewide drive to identify and prosecute those involved in illegal sex determination. Officials have urged the public to report any suspicious activities to the nearest health office or police station.
