The Pre-conception and Pre-natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994 (PC&PNDT Act) was enacted to address the alarming decline in India’s female sex ratio due to the misuse of pre-natal diagnostic techniques for sex-selective abortions. Originally titled *The Pre-natal Diagnostic Techniques (Regulation and Prevention of Misuse) Act, 1994*, it was amended in 2003 to strengthen its provisions and rename it, explicitly banning sex selection before conception as well. The Act came into force on 1st January 1996.
The law prohibits:
Sex determination tests (e.g., ultrasonography) for identifying and aborting female foetuses.
Sex selection procedures (pre- or post-conception) through techniques like sperm sorting or IVF for gender preference.
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Key provisions:
Regulation: Genetic counselling centres, clinics, and laboratories must register with Appropriate Authorities (Sections 3–4).
Consent: Written consent of pregnant women is mandatory for diagnostic tests, which are permitted only for detecting genetic abnormalities (Section 5).
Central & State Boards: Oversee implementation, public awareness, and policy recommendations (Sections 7–16A).
Penalties: Violations attract imprisonment (up to 5 years), heavy fines (up to ₹1 lakh), and cancellation of medical licenses (Sections 22–28).
Presumption of guilt: Courts presume coercion if tests are conducted for non-medical purposes (Section 24).
The Act aims to eliminate female foeticide, promote gender equality, and ensure ethical use of medical technologies.