Mumbai, Maharashtra, February 26, 2024: The Bombay High Court today rejected a petition seeking permission to terminate a 30-week pregnancy. The petition, filed by an unidentified woman, argued for medical termination based on personal circumstances.
Justice P.D. Naik and Justice N.R. Borkar, presiding over the case, acknowledged the sensitive nature of the situation. However, citing the advanced stage of the pregnancy and potential risks associated with termination, they ruled against the request.
Justice Naik stated: “While we understand the personal circumstances of the petitioner, we cannot overlook the medical risks involved in terminating a pregnancy at such an advanced stage. Additionally, with the consent of the petitioner and her family, adequate measures can be adopted to care for the baby after delivery. We encourage the petitioner to explore these options and work with relevant authorities to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the child.”
This case highlights the complex legal and ethical considerations surrounding pregnancy termination in India. The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Act, 2021, allows for termination up to 24 weeks with the approval of a medical board. However, exceptions can be made under specific circumstances, such as the presence of a fetal anomaly or risk to the mother’s health.
