Pune, a city synonymous with progressive ideals, is facing a disconcerting trend as recent statistics reveal an alarming decline in the birth rate of girls compared to boys. The implementation of the Prevention of Prenatal Gender Diagnosis (PCPNDT) Act, designed to curb illegal sex-selective abortions, is now under scrutiny as the birth rate has fallen below 900 girls for every 1000 boys, marking a six-year low.
Concerns over PCPNDT Act Implementation: Municipal Efforts Inadequate
Despite its legacy of women’s liberation movements, Pune is grappling with the repercussions of ineffective implementation of the PCPNDT Act. The Pune Municipal Corporation’s efforts to address the declining birth rate have been deemed inadequate, raising concerns about future societal challenges stemming from gender imbalance.
Declining ‘Sex Ratio’: A Six-Year Deterioration
Data from the Municipal Health Department indicates a decline in the ‘Sex Ratio’ over the past six years: from 927 in 2018 to 910 in 2022. The current ratio of 890, observed as of October, is a cause for significant worry, prompting the need for urgent intervention to reverse the trend.
Legal Challenges and Apathetic Attitudes: Obstacles in PCPNDT Act Enforcement
The PCPNDT Act, enacted to regulate prenatal gender diagnosis, has faced challenges in its implementation. The law grants authorities the power to inspect sonography centers and monitor families with female members. However, a lack of serious attention from the state government, nominal punishments, and protracted legal proceedings have hindered the effectiveness of the Act.
Addressing Concerns: Municipal Commitment and Challenges Ahead
Dr. Suryakant Deokar, Assistant Health Officer at PMC, acknowledges the decline in the birth rate of girls and attributes it to increasing family planning and societal preferences for a single child. While the Health Department is enforcing the PCPNDT Act with investigation teams and the sealing of identified centers, challenges persist, including delays in court judgments and an alleged lack of state government monitoring.
