UditVani, Jamshedpur : In a bid to strengthen the enforcement of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC & PNDT) Act, a high-level review meeting was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi at the collectorate office today.
The meeting witnessed participation of key district health officials including Civil Surgeon Dr. Sahir Pal, ACMO, DTO, DRCHO, and other members.
The review primarily focused on the functioning of registered sonography centers, compliance with legal provisions, and clearance of pending applications. Matters related to installation of new ultrasound machines (including buy-back installations), fresh registrations, addition of doctors’ names, change of center locations, and renewal of licenses were discussed in detail.
The DC directed all concerned officials to ensure time-bound disposal of applications and complete verification processes without delay, so that genuine centers can continue operations in compliance with the law.
During the meeting, Satyarthi reiterated that the core objective of the PC & PNDT Act is to curb illegal practices of sex selection and foetal gender testing, which remain serious social challenges.
He issued clear instructions to all sonography centers to strictly follow the Act’s provisions, maintain proper registers, and update records online within stipulated timelines.
He cautioned that any negligence or violation would invite strict punitive action, including suspension of license and legal proceedings.
To strengthen monitoring, the DC instructed health officials to conduct regular inspections of registered centers and ensure prompt investigation of any complaints or suspected violations.
He also emphasized the need for awareness campaigns at community and institutional levels to spread the message that foetal sex determination is illegal and to discourage female foeticide.
He underlined that active participation of both health professionals and the community is essential in safeguarding gender equality and protecting the girl child.
The meeting concluded with a collective resolve to ensure strict enforcement, greater accountability, and wider public sensitization to achieve the objectives of the PC & PNDT Act in East Singhbhum district.
