HCMSA calls action against doctors “unjust and irrational”, says adverse sex ratio is a deep-rooted social issue requiring collective action
The Haryana Civil Medical Services Association (HCMSA) has strongly opposed the Haryana health department’s decision to suspend three Senior Medical Officers (SMOs) and one Medical Officer (MO) over the issue of low sex ratio in the state. Calling the move “unjust and irrational,” the association has urged Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to immediately intervene and revoke the suspension orders.
The controversy erupted after the state health department suspended four government doctors over alleged lapses in monitoring and implementation related to declining sex ratio figures. However, HCMSA argued that holding doctors solely responsible for such a complex social problem is unfair and against the principles of natural justice.
HCMSA Says Doctors Being Made “Scapegoats”
Speaking on the issue, Dr. Anil Yadav, ASMO, DCH Rewari and President of HCMSA, said that attributing the responsibility of adverse sex ratio entirely to HCMS doctors is arbitrary and unreasonable.
According to him, doctors are already working extensively to enforce the provisions of the PC and PNDT Act, conduct inspections, create awareness, and carry out raids where necessary. He stressed that the implementation process is extremely challenging and often involves pressure from influential local figures.
Dr. Yadav highlighted that the declining sex ratio cannot be viewed only as a medical or administrative issue, as it is deeply connected to social attitudes and gender discrimination prevailing in society.
Social Evils Responsible for Gender Bias: Association
The association emphasized that social insecurity surrounding girl children continues to influence families’ mindset. HCMSA stated that concerns related to domestic violence, sexual assault, acid attacks, dowry harassment, and safety of women contribute significantly to gender bias and fear among parents.
The doctors’ body maintained that before punitive action is taken against medical officers, authorities should first address these broader societal problems and strengthen awareness campaigns aimed at changing public mentality.
HCMSA also noted that multiple government departments share responsibility in improving the sex ratio, including women and child development, police, education departments, and local self-government institutions, along with active participation from society.
Suspensions Have “Demoralized” Medical Fraternity
The association further stated that the suspension of four doctors has severely demoralized the medical fraternity across Haryana. HCMSA pointed out that one of the suspended doctors had recently been recognized for significant contribution toward improving the sex ratio, making the action even more shocking for healthcare workers.
Doctors’ representatives argued that while accountability is important, it must be fair, evidence-based, and justified. They warned that coercive action without proof of gross negligence could discourage doctors involved in enforcement of the PC & PNDT Act.
Demand for Coordinated Social Campaign
HCMSA has appealed to the Haryana government to adopt a coordinated inter-departmental strategy instead of targeting individual doctors. The association suggested that awareness campaigns should focus on ensuring the safety, dignity, and welfare of girls both before and after birth.
The doctors’ body stressed that efforts to improve sex ratio must also address crimes against women, dowry deaths, malnutrition, domestic violence, and gender-based discrimination.
The association has now sought immediate withdrawal of the suspension orders and requested the government to ensure that no coercive action is taken against doctors unless there is clear evidence of gross negligence.
