Mumbai, April 29: The Karnataka police have ramped up their efforts following a significant case of illegal gender determination in Mandya district. Authorities are currently searching for a fugitive gynecologist, while three doctors have already been arrested. Concerns have been raised regarding the involvement of underage pregnant girls in this racket.
According to police sources, illegal gender testing was conducted at two diagnostic centers located in KR Pet town—Navi Diagnostic Center and Kushal Diagnostic Center. Investigations revealed that a total of 24 scans were performed at Navi Diagnostic Center, with 19 cases recorded in 2024 and five in 2025. Additionally, seven scans were reported at Kushal Diagnostic Center.
So far, three individuals have been arrested and placed in judicial custody. The arrested suspects include Dr. Divya Chetna from Divya Maternity Center, Dr. Harshit from Navi Diagnostic Center, and Dr. Harish from Kushal Diagnostic Center.
However, the main accused, gynecologist Dr. Priyanka, remains at large. Police are conducting raids in an effort to locate her.
In total, 12 separate FIRs have been filed against 17 suspects at the KR Pet and KR Pet Rural police stations. The accused include a government doctor, a junior health assistant, a community health worker, and several private individuals.
Given the seriousness of the case, the Karnataka Lokayukta has also taken suo motu cognizance. Deputy Lokayukta Justice B. Veerappa has registered a case based on complaints regarding the illegal scanning of underage pregnant girls.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the diagnostic centers failed to report information about pregnant girls under the age of 18 to local police and relevant authorities, which is mandatory under the POCSO Act. Both the police and the Lokayukta are conducting a thorough investigation into the matter.
It is noteworthy that since late 2023, several major rackets involving female foeticide and illegal gender testing have been uncovered in Karnataka, particularly in the Mysuru and Mandya regions.
In October 2025, a raid at a farmhouse in Hanuganahalli village of Mysuru district exposed a racket where gender tests and abortions were conducted for fees ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹35,000. Five individuals were arrested during this operation, including a nurse. Authorities seized ultrasound machines, medications, and ₹300,000 in cash, while four pregnant women were rescued.
Additionally, in September 2025, an interstate racket operating between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh was also dismantled through a covert operation.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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