The weekly meeting of the State Task Force (STF) for Improving Sex Ratio in Haryana on Tuesday focused on intensifying efforts to curb illegal abortions and further improve the states sex ratio.   In the past week (May 6 to 12), 19 raids were conducted across the state over the illegal sale of MTP kits and 17 FIRs were registered. In addition, 13 shops had been sealed for illegal practices and 145 MTP kits were seized. Legal action under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, shall be launched against the offenders. Notably, after the formation of the STF, a total 43 FIRs have been registered, 21 shops sealed and 6200 MTP kits have been seized in the state.     Additional Chief Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, Sudhir Rajpal, emphasized a zero-tolerance approach toward illegal abortion practices and directed officials to enhance monitoring and supervision at all levels. He warned that strict action would be taken against any official found negligent in enforcing the law. He said the doctors found to be involved in illegal abortion practices will have their cases referred to the Medical Council of India for cancellation of their licences. The departments were directed to follow up vigorously on all registered cases and coordinate closely with police authorities to track and trace the persons involved in the illegal practice and take these cases to their logical conclusion. The Additional Chief Secretary also stressed on intensified inspections at MTP centers to prevent unlawful terminations. To regulate MTP kit sales, the officials were directed to ensure that no MTP kit is sold without a Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) identification number. To ensure better accuracy in birth registration figures, the officials were told to visit slum areas every week and organize birth registration camps to ensure that no newborn is left unregistered in the state. The meeting was informed that the number of abortions at 12 weeks or more dropped from 425 to 226 within a week, marking a major step forward in the fight against female foeticide. The meeting was also informed that the Women and Child Development Department has started running mobile vans in various districts of the state, promoting the girl child initiative, along with dedicated campaigns on social media. These multifaceted efforts not only promote gender equality but also empower communities to celebrate and support the girl child.

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