Delhi Court Allows Late-Term Abortion for Minor Survivor

In a significant ruling on Wednesday, the Delhi High Court granted permission for a minor sexual assault survivor to undergo a medical termination of her 28-week pregnancy. The court acknowledged that such an exception, extending beyond the 24-week limit set by the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, could be made in cases involving grave mental injury and trauma.

This decision followed a report from the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) on June 19, which indicated that continuing the pregnancy would likely have an adverse psychological impact on the minor. AIIMS's Medical Board conducted a comprehensive assessment, including psychiatric and psychological evaluations, concluding that the petitioner was medically fit for the procedure.

The Delhi government expressed no objection to the termination. The court further directed that the government would cover all expenses associated with the termination and the minor's hospital stay. In the event of a live birth, authorities are to provide complete medical support and assistance, with the child potentially being given up for adoption as per the minor's wishes.

Additionally, the court ordered AIIMS Delhi to preserve fetal tissue for DNA testing relevant to the criminal case against the accused. The government is mandated to bear all costs for the procedure and subsequent care.