IMA President Urges Legalization of Prenatal Gender Tests
Overview
Dr. RV Asokan, President of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), has called for a change in India’s law regarding prenatal gender determination. He argues that the current ban, in place for nearly 30 years, has not made a significant difference in addressing the country’s imbalanced sex ratio
The PCPNDT Act
Since 1994, prenatal gender determination and sex-selective abortions have been illegal under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act. The law was designed to reduce female foeticide and promote a more balanced sex ratio in India.
Questioning the Law's Effectiveness
However, Dr. Asokan questioned the success of this law in a recent address in Goa, during the IMA Ponda branch’s golden jubilee celebration. “What impact has this law had after three decades? ” He asked, pointing out that despite some improvements in certain areas, the overall impact on the sex ratio has been limited. “Has it reversed the sex ratio? Not significantly,” he added.
According to census data, India’s sex ratio has shown gradual improvement, rising from 927 females per 1,000 males in 1991 to 943 females per 1,000 males in 2011. Still, Asokan emphasized that the issue remains prevalent, suggesting that legalizing gender detection might better protect unborn girls by ensuring they are carried to full term.
Proposal for Legalization and Child Protection
The IMA president proposed legalizing prenatal sex determination as part of a broader strategy for child protection. “We are advocating for sex detection and the protection of the unborn child,” Asokan explained. His idea includes tracking pregnancies and holding people accountable if any harm comes to the child. “If anything, inappropriate happens, hold individuals accountable. It is possible with the technology available today,” he said.
Concerns Over Current Law's Impact on Healthcare
Asokan also criticized the current law for what he described as its unintended consequences, such as the unnecessary targeting of ultrasound machines and medical professionals. By revisiting the legislation, he believes the focus can shift toward truly protecting unborn girls, rather than restricting medical tools and professionals.
Source: Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
Priya Bairagi
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
