Supreme Court Rules Police Can't Investigate Prenatal Sex Selection Cases
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Judiciary & landmark judgments· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The Supreme Court clarified the investigative jurisdiction for offences under the PCPNDT Act, ruling that only the 'Appropriate Authority' can investigate such cases.
Background
The Supreme Court ruled on August 20, 2026, regarding the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994. It held that police cannot investigate these offences, which were previously disputed as being 'cognisable' and 'non-bailable'.
Facts for Prelims
- Act / BillPCPNDT Act, 1994: Prohibits prenatal sex determination and selection.
- FactThe Supreme Court ruled that police do not have the power to investigate PCPNDT Act violations.
- BodyAppropriate Authority: The designated body responsible for investigating offences under the PCPNDT Act.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of the Supreme Court's ruling on the PCPNDT Act in ensuring the effective implementation of laws against female foeticide.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- legal clarity on cognizability
- role of Appropriate Authority
- challenges in enforcement
- social impact on gender ratio
Keywords: jurisdictional clarity · procedural law · gender justice · statutory interpretation
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