Supreme Court Stresses Strict Enforcement of PCPNDT Act to Combat Gender Bias and Sex Selection

June 11, 2026 : The Supreme Court on Friday emphasised the need for stringent enforcement of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, expressing concern over the continued preference for male children and the persistence of sex-selective practices driven by deeply rooted patriarchal mindsets.

A Bench comprising Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra observed that despite sustained efforts by the government through initiatives such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Janani Suraksha Yojana, and Ladli Lakshmi Yojana, gender-based discrimination remains a significant challenge in many parts of the country.

The Court acknowledged improvements in recent years but noted that several states continue to record sex ratios at birth below the national average. Referring to Census data, the Bench highlighted that the national child sex ratio declined from 945 girls per 1,000 boys in 1991 to 927 in 2001 and further to 919 in 2011, underscoring the seriousness of the gender imbalance that led to the enactment and strict implementation of the PCPNDT Act.

The observations came while dismissing an appeal filed by a doctor challenging an order taking cognisance of alleged offences under Section 23 of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act. The Court reiterated that effective enforcement of the law is essential to curb sex selection and promote gender equality in society.