Pune Sex Determination Racket Exposes Massive Network

PUNE: A major breakthrough in an illegal prenatal sex determination racket has exposed what investigators believe could be one of Maharashtra’s largest organised networks linked to female foeticide. Pune Rural Police have launched an aggressive investigation after uncovering evidence suggesting that thousands of women may have undergone illegal sex determination tests over the past five years, with a significant number of pregnancies allegedly terminated thereafter.

Addressing the media on Wednesday, Pune Rural Superintendent of Police Sandeepsing Gill revealed that the investigation has uncovered a network extending beyond Pune district and potentially operating across three to four districts.

Police have arrested the alleged kingpin, Annasaheb Giri of Kedgaon in Daund taluka, along with Dr. Atul Ankush Jadhav of Lohgaon. Cases have also been registered under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act against Dr. Narendra Thakre, Mandar Mali and Sundaram Kadam, who remain absconding.

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The investigation began after health authorities received a video related to illegal sex determination activities, following which Dr. Sachin Vitthal Gujar lodged a complaint at Yavat Police Station. Subsequent inquiries revealed that Giri was allegedly travelling from village to village conducting sonography examinations despite having no formal medical qualifications.

Investigators found that Giri had studied up to Class 12 and had briefly pursued pharmacy education before working as a medical representative. Authorities believe he later used that exposure to build an illegal and highly profitable operation.

Portable Ultrasound Machine and Abortion Link

Police investigations have further revealed that Giri allegedly acquired a portable ultrasound machine from Narendra Thakre nearly two-and-a-half years ago. Authorities are also probing allegations that women who underwent sex determination tests were subsequently referred to Dr. Atul Jadhav’s clinic in Wagholi for abortion procedures.

₹40,000 to ₹60,000 Charged Per Test

According to investigators, the accused allegedly charged between ₹40,000 and ₹60,000 for each illegal sex determination test. Wealthier families were reportedly charged even higher amounts, raising suspicions of large-scale financial transactions connected to the racket.

Thousands of Women May Have Been Targeted

Police have recorded statements from 15 witnesses so far and are examining bank records, mobile call detail records (CDRs) and other technical evidence. Authorities suspect that thousands of women may have undergone illegal prenatal sex determination tests through the network during the past five years.

Efforts are currently underway to identify affected women, while investigators are also examining the role of family members who may have facilitated or participated in the illegal procedures. Officials have indicated that legal action could be initiated against those found complicit.

12-15 Doctors Under Investigation

Technical analysis of the prime accused’s mobile phone has reportedly revealed links with 12 to 15 doctors. Their financial transactions and potential involvement in the racket are now under intense scrutiny.

“The person conducting prenatal sex determination tests has been arrested, and efforts are underway to trace his associates. Technical investigation has revealed links with 12 to 15 doctors. The probe has been accelerated to uncover the entire network behind this racket.”

— Sandeepsing Gill, Superintendent of Police, Pune Rural

The case has triggered widespread concern, with authorities treating it as a large-scale organised crime involving illegal medical practices, financial transactions and possible violations of women’s rights. Investigators are now focused on dismantling the entire network and identifying all individuals connected to the operation.

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