#Bodily Autonomy

The Madhya Pradesh High Court ruled that a rape survivor’s voluntary consent is decisive for medical termination of pregnancy, even beyond the 20-week limit, affirming bodily autonomy as a fundamental right under Article 21. The judgment removes procedural barriers for survivors seeking timely abortion, reinforcing that POCSO and MTP Act must be read harmoniously to protect dignity and health.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court ruled that the mental trauma of rape constitutes a 'grave injury' under the MTP Act, permitting termination of pregnancy at 25 weeks for a minor victim. This decision reinforces the Act's Explanation 1, prioritizing bodily autonomy and mental health over gestational limits for rape survivors.

Gujarat HC refuses termination in the third trimester due to neonatal risks but mandates state-funded medical care, NICU support, and adoption custody arrangements. The ruling balances fetal viability with victim welfare, setting a precedent for state responsibility in high-risk pregnancies.

Delhi High Court held that the mental anguish from rape conclusively constitutes 'grave injury to mental health' under Section 3 of the MTP Act, allowing termination beyond 24 weeks. The ruling reinforces reproductive autonomy as a fundamental right under Article 21, setting a precedent for rape survivors seeking late-term abortions.

Bombay High Court directs Medical Board assessment for unmarried woman seeking abortion beyond 20 weeks, affirming reproductive autonomy under MTP Act, 1971.

Bombay High Court directs medical board assessment for minor victim of sexual assault seeking termination beyond 24 weeks, affirming autonomy and procedural safeguards under MTP Act and POCSO.