The Supreme Court has ruled that a woman cannot be compelled to continue an unwanted pregnancy against her will, emphasizing the importance of a woman's choice, especially in the case of minors. The decision came while allowing a 15-year-old girl to medically terminate her pregnancy of over seven months.
Court's Observation on Forced Pregnancy
A bench comprising Justices B V Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan observed that forcing a woman, particularly a minor, to carry a pregnancy to full term against her wishes would inflict severe mental, emotional, and physical trauma. The court rejected the suggestion that the girl should give birth and then give the newborn up for adoption, stating that the choice of the pregnant woman holds greater importance.
Child's Welfare vs. Mother's Rights
The bench noted that directing a pregnant woman to give birth against her wishes would negate her welfare and make it subordinate to the child yet to be born. The court emphasized that in cases where the child is unwanted, the woman's decision must be respected to avoid further trauma.
This ruling reinforces the legal and ethical stance that a woman's autonomy over her body is paramount, and no external considerations can override her consent in matters of pregnancy.
