Supreme Court Upholds Minor’s Right to Decide on Pregnancy

The Supreme Court of India has declined to entertain a plea seeking to overturn its April 24 order permitting termination of a 30-week pregnancy of a 15-year-old rape survivor.

A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi asked Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for doctors from AIIMS, to consult the minor’s parents, leaving the final decision to them and the victim.

The petitioners had argued that at 30 weeks, the foetus is viable and termination could result in severe medical complications for both the child and the minor. However, the court observed that forcing the minor to continue the pregnancy could subject her to lifelong trauma.

The bench emphasised that in cases involving child rape, the decision to continue or terminate a pregnancy must rest with the victim.

The Chief Justice also urged media organisations to exercise restraint and sensitivity while reporting the case, noting that it involves a minor survivor.