While it was then just over 20 weeks, following the letter of law, abortion had been treated a foregone option and denied. The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act of 1971 permits abortions after consultation with one doctor up to 12 weeks. Between 12 to 20 weeks, medical opinion of two doctors is required. He personally feels that such cases should not strictly fall under the MTP Act as they could interfere with the obstetrician’s decision making. Abortion law, its run-in with POCSOA pregnant minor, under the MTP Act, can legally receive an abortion with the consent of a legal guardian.

Source: Indian Express December 05, 2017 04:55 UTC