Two days after India Today's shocking ground report titled “Vanishing Daughters” exposed rampant female foeticide in Haryana, Chief Minister Nayab Saini responded with assurances of swift and strict action, while also acknowledging a troubling decline in the state’s sex ratio at birth.
Key Points from the CM’s Response:
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Special Task Force Announced:A dedicated task force has been set up to monitor and prevent sex determination tests and illegal abortions. The CM said this force would act swiftly to identify and punish those violating the law.
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Government’s Stand:CM Saini emphasized that sex determination practices have “significantly declined” in recent times and reiterated the state's commitment to uphold the Prime Minister’s "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" campaign:
“Those engaging in sex determination will not be spared. Strict action is being taken.”
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Recent Action Taken:Following the report, FIRs have been registered and administrative measures initiated against those involved in the illegal underground abortion rackets exposed by the sting.
Impact of India Today's Investigation:
The investigative report revealed:
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A widespread and organised network of illegal sex determination and female foeticide clinics operating covertly.
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Underground abortion centres offer illegal terminations based on gender.
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Alarming statistics:
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Only 47.64% of the 5.16 lakh births in Haryana in 2024 were of girls.
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The sex ratio at birth, which was 923 girls per 1,000 boys in 2019, has dropped to 910 in 2024.
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Evidence of police and administrative inaction in certain districts.
Broader Implications
This report and the state's response underscore the persistent challenge of gender bias and illegal medical practices in parts of India, despite legal frameworks like the PCPNDT Act (Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act).
While the announcement of a task force and crackdown is a step in the right direction, sustained monitoring, accountability, and grassroots awareness are crucial to reversing the dangerous trend. The government’s follow-through will now be closely watched—not just by the media but by civil society and women's rights groups.
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