In a drive to curb sex-selection in the city, the BMC has sealed over 27 sonography machines. Most machines have been sealed due to a lack of complete paper work and documentation as per the law.
In a drive to curb sex-selection in the city, the BMC has sealed over 27 sonography machines. Most machines have been sealed due to a lack of complete paper work and documentation as per the law.
The BMC, in conjunction with the state drive against the violation of Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act (PCPNDT), has been conducting raids all over the city. The health officers from each ward have been deputed to raid the sonography centres and check on them.
“We have temporarily sealed about 27 machines so far. Most of the machines have been seized on minor technical lapses like displaying registration certificate, forms not filled up, and other such illegalities,” said Dr Asha Advani, special officer, BMC family welfare department.
Maharashtra State Branch of Indian Radiology and Imaging Association (MSBIRIA) will be having a meeting to discuss the plan of action against the ‘harassment’ by the BMC.
“Nearly 35 machines have been sealed in Mumbai-Thane itself. None of them have been caught being involved in any kind of sex selection,” said Dr Sanjeev Mani, the joint secretary of MSBIRIA. Dr Mani said that they will even discuss going on a 1-day strike against this ‘harassment’.
Dr Advani said she is not certain what action will be taken against the sealed machines.
“None of these centres were caught trying to do sex determination. The BMC officers are even saying that they have pressure to show the numbers to the state,” said Dr Jignesh Thakkar, MSBIRIA.
According to 2011 census, Maharashtra’s child sex ratio (number of girls per 1,000 boys between up to six years of age) is 883, while the national average stands at 914.
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