Haryana takes action against Health Officials over Illegal Abortions

Chandigarh: In a decisive move to strengthen the Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao campaign and improve the sex ratio at birth (SRB) in Haryana, the state's Special Task Force (STF) on Tuesday initiated disciplinary action against two senior health officials for alleged dereliction of duty.

According to the news reports, the STF decided to charge-sheet the former Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Charkhi Dadri, for "persistent non-performance" in duties related to sex ratio monitoring. Similarly, directions were issued for initiating charges against the Senior Medical Officer (SMO) of CHC-Gopi in Bhiwani, citing low SRB in his area of responsibility.

The decisions were taken during a high-level STF meeting chaired by Additional Chief Secretary (Health), Sudhir Rajpal. The SRB stood at 906 girls per 1,000 boys as of June 23, a slight dip from 910 recorded in December 2024, prompting renewed focus on enforcement and community intervention.

During the review meeting, ACS Rajpal emphasised the need for close monitoring of “SAHELIs” working with pregnant women, particularly in areas where abortion cases have been reported. The health department spokesperson stated that the ACS directed strict surveillance of Community Health Centres (CHCs) and called for holding Senior Medical Officers (SMOs) accountable in regions where illegal abortions are taking place.

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According to Hindustan Times, the STF also ordered the cancellation of the registration of an AYUSH doctor in Kharkhoda, Sonipat, against whom an FIR has been filed over illegal abortion practices. The ACS (health) further directed that any woman arriving at a hospital with bleeding symptoms must undergo reverse tracking and be tested for consumption of Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) pills. “If any violation of the law is detected, appropriate legal action must be taken without delay,” Rajpal said.

As part of the intensified campaign from June 17 to 23, the department conducted 28 inspections across the state targeting the illegal sale of MTP kits. As a result, one shop was sealed, and two FIRs were registered. Authorities also reported a drastic drop in the number of wholesalers selling MTP kits — from 32 to just 3 — along with decreased sales in 15 districts.

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To recognise and encourage community involvement, the task force recommended identifying SAHELIs who have actively ensured the safe delivery of girl children. These volunteers will be incentivised by the respective CMOs to honour their contribution and inspire others.