**Gujarat High Court Approves Abortion for 13-Year-Old Rape Survivor**
The Gujarat High Court has granted permission for a 13-year-old rape survivor from Rajkot to terminate her 33-week pregnancy. This ruling comes after a special POCSO court had previously denied her request. The minor became pregnant following repeated assaults by her neighbor while her mother and stepfather were at work. A First Information Report was filed at the Rajkot B-Division Police Station on May 3, 2025, citing charges of rape and violations of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Justice Nirzar Desai noted that the girl suffers from moderate anemia and has a low IQ, both of which heighten the medical risks associated with continuing the pregnancy. The court stated, “Considering the victim’s young age, stage of pregnancy, moderate anemia, mental condition, and low IQ, it is clear that continuing the pregnancy poses significant risks to her health.”
Despite the pregnancy exceeding the typical 20-week limit established by the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, the court justified a judicial exemption due to the circumstances of the sexual assault and the girl’s medical condition. Medical experts confirmed that while the abortion could still be performed, it carries a heightened risk of complications due to her anemia.
The court mandated that the procedure be conducted under the supervision of a specialist doctor, following an evaluation and treatment of the girl’s anemia. It emphasized the necessity of informed consent, stating that the abortion should only proceed after obtaining written consent from her parents, acknowledging the associated risks.
The in-charge Medical Officer and Medical Superintendent of PDU General Hospital in Rajkot have been instructed to carry out the abortion as soon as possible, ideally on the same day, ensuring all necessary medical precautions and facilities are in place. The court ordered, “They are directed to perform the procedure while ensuring that all possible care is taken and arrangements are made for necessary medical facilities such as blood supply, possibly on Monday itself.”
This case highlights the critical intersection of legal, medical, and ethical considerations in cases involving minors and sexual assault, underscoring the importance of timely and compassionate medical care.
**FAQ**
**Q: What was the reason for the Gujarat High Court’s decision to allow the abortion?**
A: The court considered the girl’s young age, medical condition, and the circumstances of her pregnancy, determining that continuing the pregnancy posed significant health risks.
