VOI World/ Naman Nitin Khanna
A new British government review has highlighted skewed birth ratios among Indian-origin families in England and Wales, suggesting the possibility of sex-selective abortion—an illegal and criminal offence in the United Kingdom. The analysis, conducted by the Office for Health and Disparities under the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), examined data from 2017 to 2021.
The findings indicate that Indian-origin families recorded 113 male births for every 100 female births across 15,401 births—higher than the natural global average of 107:100. Government officials noted that a significantly higher proportion of male births can be a statistical marker consistent with sex-selective practices. However, the review emphasises that the data is not definitive evidence of sex-selective abortion and must be interpreted cautiously.
The research, originally published in 2023 and now undergoing renewed scrutiny, aims to determine whether targeted intervention is needed among specific demographic groups. The DHSC reiterated that “sex is not a lawful ground for termination of pregnancy,” underscoring the seriousness of any potential violations.
Notably, the skewed ratios applied primarily to Indian-origin mothers who had previously given birth two or more times. The report also acknowledges that biological variation, cultural factors, and demographic patterns can influence sex ratios, meaning the findings remain suggestive rather than conclusive.
The study aligns with broader European recommendations calling for monitoring of sex ratios to identify possible gender-based interventions. While the numbers do not establish wrongdoing, they have reopened discussion about cultural preferences, gender norms, and the need for deeper data transparency.
The review’s renewed relevance reflects continuing efforts by UK authorities to detect and deter any practice that could undermine child protection laws or women’s reproductive rights.
