Madhya Pradesh High Court Allows 14-Year-Old Rape Survivor To Undergo Abortion

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has granted permission to a 14-year-old rape survivor to terminate her pregnancy, considering the health risks involved and following the medical board's advice.

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The adolescent, who was 28 weeks pregnant, initially encountered opposition from her parents, but they eventually consented to the procedure after receiving court-mandated counseling.

The matter reached the High Court after being referred by the Satna District Court through a letter that emphasized the urgency of the situation.

Upon reviewing the medical report, the High Court noted that continuing the pregnancy could pose significant health dangers to the minor.

After the court's intervention, the parents revised their position when they fully comprehended the serious health risks involved. The court directed that the abortion be performed under the supervision of a specialized medical team.

Additionally, the court stipulated that if the fetus survives the procedure, the survivor would care for the infant for 15 days, after which the family could either maintain custody or transfer the child to state care.

In the latter scenario, the government would assume complete responsibility for the child's welfare, with the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) authorized to arrange adoption if appropriate.

The court also mandated preservation of the fetus's DNA sample for potential evidence in future criminal proceedings. Strict confidentiality measures were ordered to protect the identities of the survivor and her family.