In a strong administrative push to enforce the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act and curb illegal practices related to sex determination, the East Singhbhum district administration has issued firm directives for surprise inspections of ultrasound centres. The directive was part of a key meeting held at the Collectorate Auditorium on the instructions of District Magistrate-cum-Deputy Commissioner Ananya Mittal.
The meeting, chaired by Additional District Magistrate (Law and Order) Aniket Sachan, saw the presence of SDM Dhalbhum Mrs. Shatabdi Majumdar, Civil Surgeon Dr. Sahir Pal, Dr. Ranjit Panda, and concerned officials from both Dhalbhum and Ghatshila subdivisions.
The committee reviewed a total of 20 proposals concerning ultrasound centres, including new applications, renewals, and modifications. After thorough examination, the committee approved the establishment of three new ultrasound centres, renewal of one licence, and name changes for four centres. Proposals with errors or incomplete documentation were returned, with instructions to re-submit them in the next meeting after rectification.
Taking serious note of unregistered or unauthorized ultrasound clinics operating within the district, Sachan issued a clear directive for immediate identification and closure of such centres. He emphasized that any clinic found operating without proper authorization will be sealed without delay and legal action will follow as per the provisions of the PCPNDT Act.
“The Act’s core objective is to prohibit sex selection before or after conception and to prevent the misuse of medical technology for prenatal sex determination. Any violation is a punishable offence,” said Sachan, reiterating the administration’s commitment to improving the district’s sex ratio, which remains a key concern.
In addition to enforcement, the meeting also focused on public awareness and accountability. All registered ultrasound centres have been mandated to prominently display signage that reads: “Sex determination is a punishable offence under the law. Do not indulge in or encourage such practices.”
Officials were also directed to initiate awareness campaigns at both the block and district levels, targeting both healthcare providers and the general public. These campaigns aim to sensitize communities about the legal, social, and ethical implications of sex-selective practices.
Both Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) were entrusted with the responsibility of monitoring implementation in their respective jurisdictions. Regular reviews and field inspections are expected to follow, ensuring that the objectives of the PCPNDT Act are not only met on paper but enforced in practice.
The meeting concluded with a strong message: the administration will adopt a zero-tolerance approach to any form of non-compliance, and all stakeholders—including private clinics, healthcare professionals, and administrative officers—must act in coordinated efforts to uphold the law and protect the rights of the girl child.
