'False propaganda about home birth on social media is criminal'; Health Minister warns action will be taken

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Health Minister Veena George has said that it is a crime to spread false propaganda about home birth through social media. The minister said that giving birth through unscientific methods is a threat to the lives of the mother and the child. Veena George informed the meeting that action will be taken in such incidents as per the Public Health Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections.

'Statistics indicate that around 400 births take place at home every year in the state. This year, a total of around two lakh births took place. Out of these, 382 births took place at home. Home births are taking place among migrant workers and in tribal areas. It has been instructed to study the reasons for this in detail and take further action. Denying treatment is a crime.'

'Awareness will be strengthened about the 'harmful effects of home birth' with the cooperation of people's representatives and community cultural organizations. District heads have been instructed to collect accurate data and reasons for each area and take further action. Other departments should work together with the Health Department. Information should be collected accurately for each area,' said Veena George.

The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary of Health Department, NHM State Mission Director, National AYUSH Mission State Mission Director, Health Department Director, Medical Education Department Director, ISM Director, Additional Directors, Health Department, and RRT members.