Delhi launches portal to combat illegal sex determination

The Delhi government has launched a new online portal to combat the practice of sex determination of foetuses. Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh announced the initiative, aiming to enforce the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act. This law, established in 1994, prohibits sex selection before birth. The portal allows the public to register complaints against violators. Mr. Singh emphasized the importance of strict actions against those who ignore the law. He noted that sex determination is a serious issue in society and urged Delhi to set an example in eliminating it. The new system requires registered medical clinics to follow the law closely. Medical professionals, including gynaecologists and geneticists, could face penalties for engaging in sex determination. Last year, the Delhi government conducted 627 inspections, resulting in multiple penalties, including 70 show-cause notices and the cancellation of 53 registrations. Mr. Singh expressed confidence that this portal will help improve gender ratios in Delhi and fight gender-based discrimination. The portal was introduced at a workshop attended by health officials, doctors, and NGOs. Currently, it lists 1,752 medical centers in Delhi that comply with the Act.