Upon being found pregnant, she was placed in a Balika Grih (children’s home) by the Child Welfare Committee. When her request for an abortion reached the court, the petition was registered as a PIL to address the broader issue.The court pointed out the challenges faced by victims seeking abortions, particularly those beyond 24 weeks of pregnancy. Under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971, abortion before 24 weeks does not require court approval.However, after 24 weeks, judicial consent is mandatory. In one instance, the court had to reject the abortion plea of a 31-week pregnant rape victim, citing medical risks to both the mother and the fetus as per expert reports.The court also stressed the need for greater awareness of abortion rights, especially for minor victims of sexual violence. It observed that many women, both adults and minors, remain unaware of their rights under the law.The court noted that minors, in particular, are not adequately informed about their legal options by the police and other relevant agencies, often leaving them with no choice but to carry pregnancies to term against their will.
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