In a major crackdown on the unlawful sale of Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) kits, Haryana authorities have confiscated 1,787 kits during extensive inspections carried out across the state last week. Six FIRs have been lodged in connection with these violations, according to an official statement released on Tuesday.
The developments were disclosed during the weekly meeting of the State Task Force for improving the sex ratio, chaired by Sudhir Rajpal, Additional Chief Secretary, Health and Family Welfare. The meeting primarily focused on reinforcing the state’s commitment to curbing illegal abortions under the ongoing ‘Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao’ initiative.
“Mr Rajpal directed officials to intensify enforcement against illegal abortion practices and take strict action against doctors found guilty of such violations, including cancellation of their licences.”
Officials updated the Task Force that inspections conducted between May 20 and 26 led to the seizure of 1,787 MTP kits and the registration of six FIRs. Additionally, three shops were sealed for engaging in illicit activities. Notably, the number of wholesalers dealing in MTP kits has dropped from 32 to just six within a span of one month.
Authorities also discovered three instances of overpricing and served notices to two firms under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945 for regulatory breaches. Fourteen districts reported a marked decline in MTP kit sales, reflecting the growing impact of enforcement measures.
“Mr Rajpal emphasised targeting quacks involved in illegal abortions.”
To ensure tighter control, he instructed that senior medical officers be held responsible for preventing illegal abortions within the jurisdiction of every Community Health Centre (CHC).
“He directed the officials to hold senior medical officers accountable in all Community Health Centres, ensuring that no illegal abortions occur within their jurisdictions.”
He further mandated weekly review meetings—senior medical officers with medical and community health officers every Tuesday, and chief medical officers with senior medical officers every Wednesday—to monitor progress on this front.
“It was also decided to place 686 sub-registrars under the jurisdiction of all 122 Community Health Centres operating across the state to enhance accountability.”
The state also plans to reassess registration details of IVF (in-vitro fertilisation) clinics and closely track their operations to prevent any illegal activities.
“Strict compliance with established norms will be enforced, with violators facing stringent action,” the statement quoted Mr Rajpal as saying.
This intensified campaign reflects Haryana’s proactive steps to not only curb illegal abortions but also to improve the sex ratio through systematic enforcement and accountability at all levels.
