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District authorities reported 35 abortions, suspecting illegal procedures and female foeticide, prompting strict inspections of 56 Yadgir scanning centres under the PCPNDT Act
Yadgir
A sharp rise in abortion cases in Yadgir district has raised serious concerns among health officials, prompting a crackdown on nursing homes and scanning centres. Authorities fear that the trend may be linked to a preference for male children, although no direct evidence of sex determination has yet been found.
According to district health authorities, 35 abortion cases were reported over the past seven months. In 15 of these cases, medical records were incomplete or missing, suggesting that some procedures may have been conducted illegally. Officials suspect families may be terminating pregnancies after having two or three daughters, raising concerns about covert female foeticide.
In response, the district Health Department has launched strict inspections of all 56 registered scanning centres in Yadgir. District Health Officer Dr. Mahesh Biradar led surprise raids to ensure compliance with the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, which bans sex determination and regulates diagnostic procedures.
During inspections, several scanning centres were found violating the law. Mandatory records of pregnant women were missing in many facilities, and ultrasound images were not preserved. In some cases, operators shut down their centres and fled before inspections, increasing suspicion of malpractice. Two scanning centres have been sealed, and their equipment, including scanning machines, was confiscated. Legal cases have been filed against the operators, with further proceedings ongoing.
Dr. Biradar emphasized that strict action will continue against any violations. He also warned that unqualified practitioners providing abortion pills, known locally as “fake doctors,” are under investigation. “Any irregularity will invite legal action,” he said, urging public cooperation in reporting suspicious activity.
While no evidence of gender-based tests has been documented, officials stressed that failure to maintain proper records itself is a serious offense. The Health Department reiterated its commitment to protecting women’s rights and preventing gender discrimination. The situation in Yadgir underscores the urgent need for awareness, legal enforcement, and community vigilance to prevent unethical medical practices. Authorities are working to ensure that all healthcare facilities operate responsibly and that girls’ rights are safeguarded.
