The Delhi High Court allowed a 16-year-old sexual assault survivor to end her 31-week pregnancy. The ruling placed her dignity and best interests above the burden of forced motherhood.
by: India Today News Desk
October 19, 2026
The Delhi High Court has allowed a 16-year-old sexual assault survivor to terminate her 31-week pregnancy, saying she should not be expected to bear the burden of giving birth and raising a child, news agency Press Trust of India reported.
The court said the right of a minor rape survivor to terminate a pregnancy must also be recognised as a human right because refusing permission could affect her right to live with dignity.
SOURCE: India Today, 22 October 2026. https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/delhi-high-court-permits-31-week-abortion-minor-sexual-assault-survivor-ptag-3020740-2026-10-19