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The PCPNDT Act refers to the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994, enacted in India to curb female foeticide and regulate the misuse of diagnostic techniques.

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Background

• Enacted in 1994 and amended in 2003.
• Aim: Prevent sex-selective abortions due to social preference for male children.
• Focuses on regulating the use of ultrasound, amniocentesis, and other diagnostic techniques.

Objectives

1. Prohibit sex selection before and after conception.
2. Prevent misuse of prenatal diagnostic techniques for sex determination leading to female foeticide.
3. Regulate genetic counseling centers, genetic laboratories, and clinics using such technology.
4. Promote gender equality by ensuring that medical technologies are used only for legitimate purposes (e.g., detecting genetic/metabolic disorders, chromosomal abnormalities, congenital malformations).

Key Provisions

• Registration: All genetic counseling centers, laboratories, and ultrasound clinics must be registered.
• Prohibition:
  • Sex selection before or after conception is strictly banned.
  • Communicating the sex of the fetus is prohibited.
• Permitted uses: Prenatal diagnostic techniques may only be used to detect:
  • Chromosomal abnormalities
  • Genetic metabolic diseases
  • Hemoglobinopathies
  • Sex-linked genetic diseases
  • Congenital anomalies
• Consent & Record-keeping:
  • Written informed consent from the pregnant woman.
  • Maintenance of proper records (Form F, etc.).
• Penalties:
  • First offense: Imprisonment up to 3 years + fine up to ₹10,000.
  • Subsequent offenses: Imprisonment up to 5 years + fine up to ₹50,000.
  • Medical practitioners: Suspension/cancellation of registration with Medical Council.

Role of Authorities