With a sex ratio of 762 girls to 1,000 boys (Lancet Research, 2007), Delhi’s declining tolerance for the girl child is symptomatic of the country’s inability to get rid of old mindsets. A recent study by an NGO has shown that city does not want girls to be born in its families.
The findings of the study, conducted by the Centre for Social Research (CSR) with support from the ministries of health and women and child development, are shocking. The three localities selected for the study – Punjabi Bagh, Narela and Najafgarh – have the lowest sex ratio in the city.
incidents or knowledge of sex-selective abortions or female foeticide, going by responses, is a high 69.9% in Narela, 55% in Punjabi Bagh and 11.5% in Najafgarh. The quest for the male child doesn’t end here. A healthy 18.3% of people in Najafgarh and 26% in Narela even take "medication" to ensure that a son is born. And if that’s not enough, 57.8% of people in moneyed Punjabi Bagh are willing to observe religious ceremonies to get a male child.
The study, with a sample size of 1200 respondents and 55 medical units, comprising ultrasound clinics and MTP (medical termination of pregnancy) clinics, showcased findings that are similar across both caste and social standing. Whether it’s the lower classes or the rich, neither wants a girl child.
The reasons are manifold. From old customs and traditions to economic constraints like dowry and lack of support in old age, everything seems to be against the female child. Many pathology labs don’t have a consulting gynaecologist though ultrasound facility is easily available. The awareness level about PC & PNDT Act is abysmal: 69% and 67.9% of respondents in Punjabi Bagh and Najafgarh didn’t know about the anti-sex determination act.
The only good news from the finding is the slow, but steady, dissemination of information. Respondents said television was the best message provider, though there’s a grey area about information on whom to complain to about sex determination.