Bombay HC Allows 18-Year-Old Rape Survivor To Continue Pregnancy After Medical Board’s Advice

Mumbai: An 18-year-old pregnant teen, a victim of sexual assault, has decided to continue her pregnancy after a medical board advised against termination at this advanced stage. The board from state-run J J Hospital opined that termination at 32 weeks would result in a live birth and could affect her future pregnancies.

The teen had moved the Bombay High Court earlier this month, seeking permission to terminate the pregnancy, which she claimed resulted from sexual assault by a relative. A FIR was registered against the accused in February.

Last week, the HC referred her to J J Hospital for medical evaluation. The hospital reported that the foetus was healthy and that termination would lead to a live birth. It also cautioned that the procedure could pose future health risks for the teen.

A division bench of Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Neela Gokhale met the girl and her mother on Monday and explained the medical situation.

“Initially, the petitioner and her mother insisted on terminating the pregnancy. However, when the medical situation was explained, the petitioner changed her mind and agreed to continue the pregnancy for the next four weeks,” the HC noted.

The girl requested financial and medical support, following which the court directed J J Hospital to conduct weekly check-ups and admit her when necessary. The state government was ordered to bear all medical expenses, including the delivery.

The court also stated that after the birth, if the girl wishes, she can give the baby up for adoption, and the state government will take responsibility.

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