Archive · 18 Sep 2025
Delhi HC Allows Unmarried Woman to Terminate Pregnancy
A woman in Delhi who was sexually abused got permission from the court to end her pregnancy.
Because she was past the usual time limit for an abortion, she needed the court's OK.
The court agreed, saying that forcing her to continue the pregnancy would be very hard on her.
The woman's pregnancy was the result of abuse after being promised marriage.
The hospital confirmed she was healthy enough for the procedure.
Current law allows for abortions up to 20 weeks.
There are exceptions for up to 24 weeks, and in some cases, the court can allow them even later.
The Delhi High Court approved an unmarried woman's request to end a pregnancy beyond 22 weeks.
The woman stated the pregnancy resulted from sexual abuse under a false marriage promise.
The court determined continuing the pregnancy would cause significant trauma and social stigma.
An FIR was filed against the accused under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
The woman sought the termination due to health and legal reasons.
- Who
- A 30-year-old unmarried woman
- What
- The Delhi High Court permitted the termination of a pregnancy beyond 22 weeks.
- When
- June 2025 (pregnancy confirmed), May 15 (assault allegedly occurred)
- Where
- Delhi
- Why
- Because continuing the pregnancy would have seriously harmed the woman's physical and mental health.
- Plaintiff
- 30-year-old unmarried woman
- Pregnancy Duration
- Beyond 22 weeks
- Reason for Pregnancy
- Sexual abuse under false promise of marriage
- Court
- Delhi High Court
- Relevant Law
- Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act
- FIR Filed Under
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)