Task force ramps up action against unlicensed clinics
The weekly meeting of the State Task Force for Improving Sex Ratio was held under the chairmanship of Additional Chief Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, Sudhir Rajpal, here today. The meeting focused on intensifying efforts to curb illegal abortions and further improve the state's sex ratio under the Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao campaign.
Rajpal issued strict directions to officials, emphasising zero tolerance toward illegal abortion practices. He said no BAMS doctor was permitted to carry out medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) procedures. Any violation would attract stringent action, including the cancellation of medical licences and sealing of clinics.
He directed that abortion beyond 12 weeks must be strictly regulated. It must be mandatory to obtain prior approval from the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) along with recommendations from at least two registered gynaecologists.
He also stressed the urgent need to crack down on illegal medical practitioners and unregistered clinics operating under the guise of healthcare services. He instructed the district authorities to conduct regular inspections and coordinate with law enforcement agencies to identify and shut down such establishments promptly.
The state recorded a sex ratio of 917 between April 30 and May 5, 2025—a notable improvement compared to the corresponding period last year.
Rajpal appreciated the efforts and emphasised the importance of recognising and rewarding officials and doctors who showed exemplary commitment in the field.
He said strict disciplinary and legal action would be initiated against repeat offenders. He proposed that any person or institution found to be consistently violating the law should be barred from availing benefits under government schemes, including pensions and subsidies.
Data of women already having a female child and undergoing IVF would be analysed to rule out sex-selection activities and decoy operations on IVF, and other clinics were also being carried out.
