High Court permits termination of 27-week pregnancy of 16-year-old sexual assault survivor, directs govt to make necessary arrangements without delay

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court has permitted the termination of the 27-week pregnancy of a 16-year-old girl who survived sexual assault. The order was passed on a petition filed by the girl's mother, who cited the psychological trauma suffered by her daughter and sought permission to terminate the pregnancy.

Justice Harisankar issued the order directing the state government to make the necessary arrangements for the procedure. A medical board constituted as per the court's directions had recommended termination in its report submitted on October 14. The court also accepted the stand taken by the girl and her mother that they did not wish to continue the pregnancy. It directed the authorities to obtain written consent from both of them before proceeding.

The court instructed the government to complete the necessary arrangements without delay. It also made it clear that if the baby is born alive during the termination procedure, the authorities must ensure the required neonatal care and medical treatment.