In a case that has sparked outrage, a 39-year-old woman from Kollam has taken her husband, father-in-law, and mother-in-law to the Kerala High Court, accusing them of instructing her on how to conceive a “good boy child.”
During the hearing of the plea, Justice Devan Ramachandran expressed shock at the situation, noting the persistence of such regressive practices, especially in a state known for its progressive values.
The woman alleges that the ordeal began immediately after her marriage in 2012, when her husband allegedly handed her a note detailing methods for conceiving a boy. The note reportedly contained explicit instructions on the exact manner and timing of sexual intercourse to ensure a 95 percent chance of conceiving a “good boy child,” emphasizing the belief that girls were a financial burden.
Despite following the instructions, the woman gave birth to a healthy girl child in 2014, contrary to the family’s expectations. Following this, she claims that the hostility and discriminatory treatment from her husband’s family intensified, creating a distressing domestic environment.
The woman has accused her husband and his family of violating the Pre-conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC & PNDT) Act, 1994, which prohibits sex selection and gender-based abortions. The plea specifically alleges a violation of Section 22 of the Act, which prohibits any form of advertising related to prenatal sex determination.
The woman has sought justice through official channels, reporting the alleged violations to the Director of the Pre-Natal Diagnostic Division and the Additional Director (Family Welfare). However, she expressed disappointment at the lack of subsequent action from the authorities.
The High Court has granted time for the respondents to respond to the allegations and has called for directions from both state and central authorities.
