Gujarat High Court Directs Comprehensive Care for 15-Year-Old Sexual Assault Survivor
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
The Gujarat High Court has directed authorities to ensure comprehensive medical, financial and psychological support for a 15-year-old sexual assault survivor who is 27 weeks pregnant, after a medical board advised against terminating the pregnancy due to the potential risks to her health.
The court was hearing a petition filed by the minor’s mother. It took note of a report submitted by the Chief District Medical Officer at General Hospital, Bharuch, which detailed the medical risks associated with a medical termination of pregnancy at this advanced stage.
Medical board flags risks of late-term termination
The medical board, comprising specialists in gynaecology, psychiatry, anaesthesia and paediatrics, cautioned that terminating the 27-week pregnancy could pose serious health risks, including severe bleeding during or after delivery, seizures and infections.
In view of the medical opinion, the petitioner chose not to press the request for termination of pregnancy.
Taking into account the minor’s age and the family’s financial circumstances, the High Court issued directions to ensure that the survivor receives appropriate care throughout the remainder of her pregnancy and during delivery.
Free treatment, nutrition and psychological support
The court directed hospital authorities to provide regular health monitoring, nutritional support at no cost, psychiatric care and assistance during delivery.
Police officials were also directed to arrange regular transportation for the minor’s medical appointments and expedite interim financial assistance under the Victim Compensation Scheme.
Directions regarding the newborn
The High Court further addressed the possibility that the family may decide not to keep the child after birth. In such a situation, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) must facilitate the newborn’s transfer to the Specialised Adoption Agency in Bharuch, in accordance with the applicable legal procedure.
The single-judge bench also directed that a DNA sample of the newborn be collected after delivery for forensic evidence in the criminal proceedings under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The directions aim to ensure the minor’s health, safety and rehabilitation while addressing the requirements of the ongoing criminal investigation.
