Dhairya Gajara, freepressjournal.in, Updated: January 29, 2025
(Photo): Doctors Call for Postponement of 5G Radiation Norms, Highlighting Unstudied Health Risks | Representative Image
Mumbai: Doctors from across the country have urged the Ministry of Communications to postpone the introduction of revised 5G radiation norms citing public health risks, cybersecurity threats and environmental concerns. The medical professionals have alleged lack of transparency and public engagement in the implementation of norms which are scheduled to be effective from February 1.
Doctors and other citizens from Mumbai, Delhi and different cities of the country have urged the Minster of Communications to postpone the introduction of the revised electromagnetic field (EMF) 5G radiation norms that are scheduled to be implemented from February 1. The initiative has been launched under the banner of Awaken India Movement (AIM), which has also launched an online petition to support this cause.
The organisation is opposing the recent relaxations in 5G radiation rules as the power density for a 5G Base Tower Station has been increased to 5 watts per square meter from 1 watt. It alleged that the union government has not conducted or published any studies to dismiss any health effects, whereas over 200 peer reviewed studies globally and 40 peer reviewed studies in India show health hazards from EMF Radiation.
The information received under the Right To Information (RTI) Act has highlighted that the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), a statutory research body under the union government’s Department of Science and Technology, has conducted no studies to assess the biological and ecological impacts of cellular technologies.
It also cited an advisory by the Wildlife Division of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change which stated that that electromagnetic radiations can affect the biological systems of animals, birds, and insects. It also alleged contradictions in statements issued by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), which earlier claimed to be conducting studies on the health impacts of radiation but later denied ever conducting such research.
In a letter to the union ministry, AIM has raised concerns regarding the long-term health impacts of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) exposure, specifically to vulnerable populations such as children, elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. It also raised concerns regarding increased risk of cyberattacks with the widespread deployment of 5G network, including financial fraud, data breaches, and privacy violations.
Doctors have also highlighted environmental concerns related to the deployment of 5G network. The infrastructure required for 5G, particularly the deployment of small cell antennas and increased energy consumption by the network, may exacerbate global environmental challenges, said the letter. It also alleged that wireless technology is causing the demise of frogs, bats, honey bees and house sparrows.
Urging the government to postpone the implementation of the revised norms, the letter stated that the delay is essential to conduct comprehensive, multidisciplinary studies, strengthen regulatory safeguards, and ensure robust public engagement.
“The government is failing in its duty to uphold Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the fundamental right to health and safety. There is absolutely no regard for the elderly, infirm, pregnant women, young children or flora and fauna who may be sensitive to such radiation. Failing to act responsibly now will not only jeopardize public health and cybersecurity but will also erode public trust in governance. The government must prioritize the safety and well-being of its citizens above economic expediency or technological progress,” read the letter.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-doctors-urge-union-govt-to-postpone-5g-radiation-norms-citing-lack-of-scientific-studies-on-adverse-effects
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.