Chargesheet Delay Leads to Bail; Doctor Has History of Similar Allegations
In a significant development from Hisar, a court has granted ‘default bail’ to a Barwala-based doctor accused in an illegal sex determination case, after police failed to file the chargesheet within the mandatory 60-day period.
Doctor Allegedly Caught Red-Handed During Raid
The accused doctor was reportedly caught conducting an illegal sex determination test at a private clinic in the Azad Nagar police station area. Acting on specific intelligence, a team from the Health Department led by Dr Anamika Bishnoi carried out a raid at the clinic, leading to the case being registered.
Court Proceedings and Bail Decision
The matter was heard by the Fast Track Special Court presided over by Natasha Sharma. On April 2, the court initially took up the doctor’s regular bail plea and sought a response from the prosecution.
Later, on April 15, after reviewing submissions from both sides, the court granted default bail due to the prosecution’s failure to submit the chargesheet within the stipulated timeframe.
Case Registered Under PCPNDT Act and IPC Sections
Authorities registered the case under provisions of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act, along with Sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy) and 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code.
Long History of Similar Allegations
The doctor has previously faced multiple allegations related to illegal sex determination tests. Cases have reportedly been registered against him in 1999, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2020, 2021, and as recently as October 2023.
In the October 2023 incident, health authorities from Hisar and Sirsa had busted a similar racket, leading to action against him once again.
Political Links and Continued Scrutiny
Apart from his medical practice, the accused has also been active in politics. He has contested several Assembly elections from the Barwala constituency on different tickets, including as an independent candidate and representing the Jannayak Janta Party.
Ongoing Concerns Over Enforcement
The case highlights ongoing challenges in enforcing laws against illegal sex determination in India. While the grant of default bail is a legal right due to procedural delay, authorities are expected to continue their investigation and pursue the case as per law.
