Doctors Cite Lack of Scientific Studies on Adverse Effect, Urge Govt to Postpone Introducing Revised 5G Radiation Norms

Mumbai: Pointing out the possible public health risks, cybersecurity threats and environmental concerns, doctors from across the country have urged the Union Ministry of Communications to postpone the introduction of revised 5G radiation norms.

As per the doctors, the norms which are scheduled to come into effect from February 1, lack transparency and public engagement. Therefore, doctors and other citizens from Mumbai, Delhi and different cities across India have urged the Government to defer implementation of the new norms.

The initiative has been launched under the banner of Awaken India Movement (AIM), FPJ has reported. AIM has also initiated an online petition to support this cause.

Opposing the recent relaxations in the 5G radiation rules as the power density for a 5G Base Tower Station has been increased to 5 watts per square meter from 1 watt, the organisation has alleged that the Union Government has not conducted or published any studies to rule out possible health effects when more than 200 peer-reviewed studies across the world and 40 peer-reviewed studies in India have showed the possible health hazards from the EMF Radiation.

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As per the latest media report by Free Press Journal, as per the data received under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), a statutory research body under the union government’s Department of Science and Technology, has conducted no studies to assess the biological and ecological impacts of cellular technologies.

Further, the organization also cited an advisory by the Wildlife Division of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change stating that the electromagnetic radiation can affect the biological systems of animals, bird,s and insects. It also alleged contradictions in statements issued by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), which had previously claimed to have conducted studies on the health impacts of radiation but later denied ever conducting such research.

Writing to the Union Ministry, AIM raised concerns regarding the long-term health impacts of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) exposure, specifically to vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. It also expressed its concerns over the fact that the risk of cyberattacks has increased with the rapid deployment of 5G network. Such cyberattacks include financial fraud, data breaches, and privacy violations.

Further, the doctors have highlighted the environmental concerns concerning the deployment of 5G network, while painting out that the infrastructure necessary for 5G, especially for the deployment of small cell antennas and increased energy consumption by the network, may exacerbate global environmental challenges. The doctors also alleged that wireless technology is the reason for the demise of frogs, bats, honey bees and house sparrows.

Therefore, they have urged the Government to postpone the implementation of the revised norms and also pointed out in the letter that the delay is essential to conduct comprehensive, multidisciplinary studies, strengthen regulatory safeguards, and ensure robust public engagement.

"The government is failing in its duty to uphold Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the fundamental right to health and safety. There is absolutely no regard for the elderly, infirm, pregnant women, young children, or flora and fauna who may be sensitive to such radiation. Failing to act responsibly now will not only jeopardize public health and cybersecurity but will also erode public trust in governance. The government must prioritize the safety and well-being of its citizens above economic expediency or technological progress," the letter mentioned.

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