Isn't this still a problem in the south too? The article clearly mentions its talking about India on average- Incidentally, the states you mentioned are also among the most populous. Most of the problems discussed do exist in the south as well although not to the same extent as the north. Only Kerala seems to be relatively less afflicted- with a favourable sex ratio, less absolute poverty and sanitation issues. Even in Kerala, the practices of dowry and favouring of sons is widely prevalent.

I, for one think the article is commendable in bringing new insight to problems facing us in India.