Lok Sabha passes Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Bill

A bill to regulate and supervise assisted reproductive technology clinics was passed by the Lok Sabha on Wednesday by a voice vote after a three-hour discussion. The Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Bill stipulates that a woman wishing to donate ovum must be between 23 and 35 years, married and have at least a child of her own, 3 years or older.
A couple or a single woman can use ART for becoming a parent. During the discussion on the Bill, several of the 18 MPs said that the bill was discriminatory as it did not allow single men and LGBTQ couples to become parents. Opening the debate, Congress MP Karti Chidambaram said, "there are many people who are unable to have children. Why are you depriving them? The bill discriminates against single men, LGBTQ community. It takes away the right of an individual to decide on how to become a parent."

In his reply, health minister Mansukh Mandaviya said, "several members have pointed out that it excludes LGBTQ community. A single woman can take advantage of ART to become a parent; so it extends to LGBTQ individuals." The 2017 adoption rules stipulate a single man cannot adopt a girl child. "Since sex determination is not legal, it is not feasible for a single man to use ART to become a parent."

NCP MP Supriya Sule said the rules were discriminatory and must be re-examined. "Why don't we take the help of women and child development ministry and speak to experts to see how these adoption rules can be changed?"

The minister assured members that their suggestions will be included when rules are framed.

The bill stipulates that every ART clinic and bank must be registered under the National Registry of Banks and Clinics of India. The registry will be established under the bill. States will appoint authorities for processing registration. The registration will have to be renewed every five years.