Delhi High Court Permits 16-Year-Old Rape Survivor to Terminate 31-Week Pregnancy

The Delhi High Court has permitted a 16-year-old rape survivor to terminate a 31-week pregnancy, ruling that denial affects her dignified existence and constitutes a violation of human rights.

The medical board confirmed the minor was fit for the procedure, and the court directed Lady Hardinge Medical College and Hospital to preserve foetus tissue for DNA testing in the criminal case.

The court ordered the State to bear the medical expenses and ensure adoption support if the child is born alive, while strictly protecting the minor's identity.