Govt to enforce PNDT Act vigorously to check sex ratio decline [India]

The government is going to vigorously enforce the pre-natal diagnostic techniques (PNDT) Act which has become more comprehensive and stringent following the amendments made in it.
At a meeting held recently in the Health Ministry, the shortcomings in the way of enforcement were discussed threadbare and it was decided to implement the provisions with vigour and rigour in states and Union territories.

The Act provides for stringent penalties against the violators, like imprisonment upto three years and fine upto Rs 10,000/-; for subsequent offences imprisonment upto five years and fine upto Rs 50,000/- to Rs 1 Lakh. If charges of violation of the Act is proved the license of the Registered Medical Practitioner will be suspended.

Each Appropriate Authority will be assisted by an eight member advisory Committee comprising doctors, Social workers, persons with legal background etc. The Supervisory Board comprising 22 members under the Chairmanship of the Minister in charge of Family Welfare Department will oversee the implementation of the Act in the respective States and Union Territories.

The Central Supervisory Board having 24 members headed by the Union...