Detective agencies to catch PNDT violators in Punjab

The Department of Health and Family Welfare in Punjab to hire professional detectives to catch Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Technique Act (PC-PNDT Act) violators.
Vini Mahajan, Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, Punjab said here today that the step has been taken to keep a vigil on those involved in malpractices like sex-determination test and female foeticide.
"The move also holds significance in view of the fast- changing technology that is reportedly being misused by such elements, to earn a fast buck," he said.
The idea was conceived in the meeting of the State Supervisory Board of PC-PNDT, she said.

Mahajan said that it was felt that the violators, at times misuse latest technology for sex-determination of foetus.
"Thus, it was felt that taking help of professional detectives to track such offenders would be fruitful in curbing the menace of female foeticide," she said.

Once these detective agencies are finalised, they shall conduct sting operations on centers, professional or individuals suspected to be indulging in unfair practice of sex-determination and violating the provision of PC-PNDT Act, she said.
"These empaneled detectives shall provide authentic proofs and evidences to the department of Health and Family Welfare after which further legal action will be pursued against the violators," she said.

The sex-ratio of the state has improved from 876 in year 2001 to 893 in year 2011, according to the census data.