Kochi, October 23, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Kerala High Court has permitted the termination of a 27-week pregnancy of a 16-year-old girl who survived sexual assault, taking into account the psychological trauma and mental distress associated with continuing the pregnancy.
The order was passed on a petition filed by the girl’s mother, who sought the court’s permission to terminate the pregnancy, stating that its continuation would cause further mental anguish to her daughter.
The court accepted the position of both the minor and her mother that they did not wish to continue the pregnancy.
As the pregnancy had reached an advanced stage, the matter required medical assessment and judicial consideration under the applicable legal framework.
An expert medical board, constituted on the court’s directions, examined the girl and submitted a report recommending that the pregnancy could be terminated.
After considering the medical board’s findings and the provisions of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, the High Court granted permission for the procedure.
The court also prescribed safeguards to ensure that the termination is carried out with appropriate medical care and consent.
Directing the state government to make the necessary arrangements without delay, the court emphasised the need to ensure that the procedure could be performed with adequate medical support.
The High Court also addressed the possibility of the baby being born alive during the procedure. It directed the state government to ensure that the newborn receives the necessary neonatal care and specialised medical treatment if such a situation arises.
The ruling highlights the complex medical and legal considerations involved when a minor who has survived sexual assault seeks termination of a pregnancy at an advanced stage.
The court’s directions place responsibility on the state government to facilitate the procedure without unnecessary delay while ensuring that appropriate medical care is available for any eventuality.
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