Key Facts
The Supreme Court of India has observed that although the country's child sex ratio has shown clear signs of improvement, the continued prevalence of sex selection practices reflects deep-seated patriarchal preferences for a male child. A Bench of Justices Sanjay Karol and P.K. Mishra made the observation while dismissing a Maharashtra doctor's appeal challenging criminal proceedings under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994 (PCPNDT Act).
Details of the Observation
Referring to various government schemes to curb female foeticide, the court said these reflect sustained efforts to address systemic discrimination against the girl child in an inherently patriarchal society. However, several states still report sex ratios at birth below the national average. According to official Government of India data, the country's sex ratio has improved in recent years, but the continuing presence of patriarchal preferences and sex selection practices remains a concern.
The Bench stressed that strict enforcement of the PCPNDT Act is essential until entrenched social attitudes change. The ruling authored by Justice Karol stated: "...the integrity and strict enforcement of welfare-oriented legislation such as the PCPNDT Act remain essential along with efforts continued and earnest, till the time there is a widespread change in mentality..."
Impact and Implications
The court noted that the child sex ratio fell from 945 in 1991 to 927 in 2001 and further to 919 in 2011, prompting stricter implementation of the Act. On the global front, the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report 2025 recorded India's drop in ranking to 131 out of 148, from 129 the previous year. The Bench refused to quash criminal proceedings against the doctor, emphasizing that letting infractions slide would defeat the purpose of the PCPNDT Act.
What Readers Should Know
- The Supreme Court's observation underscores the need for continued enforcement of laws against sex selection.
- Despite improvements, patriarchal attitudes persist, affecting the child sex ratio.
- India's global gender parity ranking has declined, highlighting ongoing challenges.
- The PCPNDT Act remains a crucial tool in combating female foeticide.
FAQ
What did the Supreme Court observe about sex selection in India?
The Supreme Court observed that despite improvement in child sex ratio, sex selection practices continue due to deep-seated patriarchal preferences for a male child.
Which Act is being enforced to prevent sex selection?
The Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994 (PCPNDT Act) is being enforced.
What is the current child sex ratio trend in India?
The child sex ratio declined from 945 in 1991 to 927 in 2001 and 919 in 2011, but has shown signs of improvement recently.
How did India rank in the Global Gender Gap Report 2025?
India ranked 131 out of 148 countries, dropping from 129 the previous year.