The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court on Monday directed the Medical Board at the District Government General Hospital, Irwin Hospital, Amravati, to urgently examine a 16-year-old rape survivor who has sought permission to medically terminate her 27-week pregnancy. A division bench of Justices Anil S Kilor and Raj D Wakode was hearing a writ petition filed through the girl’s father. The petitioner, aged 16 years and eight months, approached the court seeking directions to allow the termination of her pregnancy, which has advanced to about 27 weeks. After hearing the petitioner’s counsel, the court issued notice to the State and another respondent, making the matter returnable on July 7 at 2.30 pm.

 

The Assistant Government Pleader accepted notice on behalf of the State. Considering the allegations made in the First Information Report and the minor age of the petitioner, the bench directed that she be immediately examined by a duly constituted Medical Board under the provisions of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971. The judges directed the Medical Board to submit its report before the High Court by 2.30 pm on July 7, so that the court can take an informed decision without delay.

 

The bench also directed the hospital’s Dean and Medical Officer to ensure that the examination is carried out promptly. The State Government, through the Assistant Government Pleader, assured the court that the order would be communicated immediately to the concerned authorities for compliance. Adv S H Bhatia represented the petitioner (appointed) while AGP H D Marathe for the respondent /State.