A 20-year-old unmarried woman’s plea to terminate her 27-week pregnancy was rejected by the Delhi High Court, citing the fetus’s health and viability, deeming feticide morally and legally unacceptable.
Justice Subramaniam Prasad, examining the medical report, emphasized the absence of congenital abnormalities or potential risks to the mother. As the fetus is healthy and viable, continuation of the pregnancy was deemed necessary, with feticide considered unethical and unlawful.
Concerns were raised regarding the potential harm to both the newborn and the mother if the pregnancy were terminated, including the risk of premature delivery and adverse effects on future pregnancies.
The court advised the petitioner to seek assistance from AIIMS, New Delhi, for delivery and further guidance, assuring access to necessary facilities. Additionally, the Central government was highlighted as an avenue for adoption if the woman wished to pursue that option.
The petitioner, preparing for the NEET exam, expressed distress over the pregnancy’s impact on her education and future prospects. However, the court underscored the absence of conditions warranting abortion under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, which allows termination beyond 24 weeks only in cases of fetal abnormalities or risks to the mother’s life.
Also read: PV Narasimha Rao’s Family Meets PM Modi in Hyderabad, Expresses Gratitude for Bharat Ratna Honor
The woman’s lawyer argued the potential risks associated with continuing the pregnancy, including social stigma and career jeopardy. Nonetheless, the court upheld its decision based on the legal framework provided by the MTP Act.
In essence, the court’s ruling reflects the complex balance between protecting the rights of the unborn and addressing the concerns of the pregnant woman, navigating the delicate terrain of reproductive rights within the bounds of existing legal provisions.
The hearing was postponed as a key officer withheld permission to prosecute an alleged accused.…
On Monday, PM Modi distributed more than 71,000 appointment letters to newly recruited government employees…
Describing the attack, New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch said, "As the train pulled…
The Media Division Brahma Kumaris to commemorate the 9th death anniversary of Rajyogi Brahmakumar Omprakash…
On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in honoring former Prime Minister Chaudhary…
The Delhi High Court will actively hear a petition filed by Leader of Opposition Vijender…