Balasore: Ultrasound Centre in Soro Sealed Over Suspected PC & PNDT Act Violations

Balasore: The Health & Family Welfare Department has sealed a registered ultrasound centre in Soro following a surprise inspection that revealed alleged violations of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC & PNDT) Act.

The inspection was carried out over Thursday and Friday by a joint team of district health, administrative and revenue officials under the supervision of the District Appropriate Authority. The raid was conducted suo motu after authorities received credible inputs about possible irregularities at the facility.

To preserve records and prevent any tampering with evidence, officials secured the premises before beginning a detailed inspection. The team examined statutory documents, ultrasound equipment, patient records and compliance with provisions of the PC & PNDT Act.

During the verification, officials reportedly found several prima facie violations, including the failure to upload mandatory Online Form F records for a prolonged period. They also observed that the ultrasound room did not display the attending doctor’s name, qualifications and registration number as required under the law. In addition, discrepancies were noticed in statutory documentation maintained by the centre.

Authorities further verified the State Online Form F portal and found no records submitted for the relevant reporting period, raising further concerns that are now under investigation.

The inspection also uncovered medical equipment and materials allegedly associated with Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) procedures at the premises, despite the facility not being registered under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act. Officials subsequently seized relevant documents, equipment and other materials for further examination.

According to the Health Department, digital evidence collected during the inquiry is also being analysed independently. Based on the findings, legal proceedings are being initiated under the PC & PNDT Act, the MTP Act and other applicable laws. Statutory notices will be issued, and further action will be taken after the investigation and scrutiny of evidence are completed.

Reaffirming its commitment to curbing illegal sex selection and female foeticide, the Health & Family Welfare Department said it maintains a zero-tolerance policy against violations of laws intended to protect the girl child and uphold ethical medical practices across Odisha.