The Indian Radiological and Imaging Association (IRIA) has urged radiologists and doctors performing ultrasonography to study the provisions of the amended Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PNDT) Act to avoid any contravention.

Apart from conducting awareness workshops, the association has issued a statement stating that it was crucial for doctors to read the Government's gazette dated February 14, which contains certain amendments.

Vice president of the association Dr. Dilip Lakhkar says it has become obligatory for radiologists to maintain a record (form F) with the pregnant woman's declaration that she does not want to know the sex of the foetus. The doctor performing ultrasonography also has to submit a declaration that he/she had not detected or disclosed the sex of the foetus to any one.

This record has to be preserved and submitted to appropriate authority while the IRIA has directed its members that radiologist concerned must sign the declaration at the end of each obstetrical report. Lakhar said the gazette mentions a code of conduct for persons working in ultrasound clinics.