SC allows minor to end 7-month pregnancy, says her choice matters

In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of India said that no woman can be forced to continue an unwanted pregnancy. The court clearly stated that a woman’s choice, health, and dignity come first. This decision came while allowing a 15-year-old girl to terminate her more than seven-month pregnancy, Live Law reported.

​The case was filed by the girl’s mother, who sought permission to terminate the pregnancy as it had crossed the legal limit under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act. The pregnancy was a result of a consensual relationship between two minors, and the girl did not want to continue it.

​During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said that terminating the pregnancy at this stage could be risky. He suggested giving the baby up for adoption through the Central Adoption Resource Authority and even offered financial help.

​However, Justice B V Nagarathna disagreed. She said courts cannot force a woman to give birth just because adoption is an option. The bench made it clear that the woman’s choice is more important than the unborn child’s interest.

​The court also highlighted that this is even more serious in the case of minors, as forcing them can cause mental, emotional, and physical harm. It noted that the girl was already under stress and showed signs of self-harm. Her studies and daily life were also badly affected.

​The bench said reproductive choice is part of the right to life under Article 21. Even if the law has limits, courts must step in when needed. Denying such requests may push women towards unsafe abortion.

​Finally, the court allowed the procedure at AIIMS, New Delhi, under medical care, with the mother’s consent. This judgment strongly supports women’s rights, dignity, and freedom of choice.