Delhi High Court Rejects Anticipatory Bail in Illegal Ultrasound and Coerced Abortion Case

Court Denies Bail to Accused Involved in Sex Determination Leading to Death of Pregnant Woman, Citing Grave Societal Consequences

In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has rejected the anticipatory bail application of Bhupender Singh, accused of conducting illegal ultrasounds for sex determination which led to the coerced abortion and subsequent death of a pregnant woman. Justice Dr. Swarana Kanta Sharma, presiding over the case, emphasized the grave societal implications of such offences and the necessity for a thorough investigation to prevent recurrence.

The case revolves around the tragic death of Dipika, who was coerced into an abortion after an illegal ultrasound revealed the gender of her unborn child. The ultrasound, allegedly conducted by Bhupender Singh and his son, Vivek, was part of an organized scheme violating the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PNDT) Act. The court highlighted the need for custodial interrogation of the accused to recover instruments, identify accomplices, and ensure accountability.

During the proceedings, the counsel for Bhupender Singh argued that he was falsely implicated and not directly involved in the illegal ultrasound or subsequent events. However, the court noted the necessity of custodial interrogation to investigate the larger conspiracy and trace other potential victims.

The judgment underscored the detrimental effects of illegal sex determination practices on societal values and gender equality. It highlighted the critical need for decisive legal intervention to convey the message that every life, regardless of gender, deserves protection and dignity.

The court's decision to deny anticipatory bail reflects the seriousness of the offences and the imperative to safeguard the rights of unborn female children and pregnant women from unsafe medical practices. The ruling serves as a stern warning against such unlawful activities and reaffirms the judiciary's commitment to upholding the principles of gender justice.

Bottom Line:

Anticipatory bail rejected for accused involved in illegal ultrasound and sex determination leading to coerced abortion and death of pregnant woman.

Statutory provision(s): Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 Sections 85, 316(2), 89, 3(5); Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act (PNDT Act).

Bhupender Singh v. State NCT of Delhi, (Delhi) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2799311