Bombay High Court Approves Termination of 26-Week Pregnancy Due to Severe Foetal Anomalies

The court emphasized the petitioner’s reproductive rights and directed medical guidance on termination methods for the advanced-stage pregnancy.

The Bombay High Court allowed a 32-year-old woman to terminate her 26-week pregnancy after diagnosing the foetus with skeletal dysplasia, a condition incompatible with life.
The court's decision underscored the petitioner’s right to reproductive freedom, bodily autonomy, and choice under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act.
The termination is permitted at a private hospital of the petitioner’s choice, contingent on the hospital affirming compliance with MTP Act regulations.
The court directed the J J Hospital medical board to provide an opinion within two days on the most suitable termination method, including foetal heartbeat reduction to prevent live birth.
This case highlights the legal, medical, and ethical complexities of late-term pregnancy terminations in India, particularly for pregnancies beyond 24 weeks.