A sex determination racket was busted in Karnal, Haryana, with the arrest of one person. The accused was caught red-handed while conducting illegal ultrasound tests for sex selection at a clinic. The operation was carried out by a team from the Health Department and the Haryana Police.
Details of the Raid
Acting on a tip-off, a joint team raided a clinic in the urban area of Karnal. The accused, identified as Dr. Rajesh Kumar, was found performing ultrasound scans on a pregnant woman to determine the sex of the fetus. The team seized an ultrasound machine and other incriminating evidence from the spot.
Legal Action Taken
The accused has been booked under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994, which prohibits sex determination and sex selection. He was produced before a local court and sent to judicial custody. Further investigation is underway to identify other possible accomplices.
Health Department's Statement
Civil Surgeon Dr. Ramesh Kumar said that such illegal activities are a serious offense and strict action will be taken against those involved. He urged the public to report any such instances to the authorities. The health department has been conducting regular inspections to curb sex determination practices.
Impact on Society
Sex determination leads to female foeticide, causing an imbalance in the sex ratio. Haryana has one of the lowest sex ratios in India, and such rackets exacerbate the problem. The arrest is seen as a step towards enforcing the law and protecting the girl child.
Public Awareness
The authorities have emphasized the need for public awareness about the legal and ethical implications of sex determination. Campaigns and workshops are being organized to educate people on the importance of gender equality and the consequences of violating the PCPNDT Act.
