‘No Time Limit For Rape Survivors’: SC Urges Law Change On Pregnancy Termination

Last Updated:April 30, 2026, 11:38 IST

The bench observed that forcing a minor to continue with a pregnancy resulting from rape would add to the suffering already endured.

The Supreme Court on Thursday said the decision to terminate the pregnancy of a 15-year-old rape survivor should rest with the victim and her parents, with medical experts assisting them in making an informed choice.

Hearing the case, the court said institutions like AIIMS could guide the family so they can take a well-informed decision. It emphasised that an unwanted pregnancy cannot be forced on a survivor and highlighted the emotional and physical trauma involved.

‘Unwanted Pregnancy Cannot Be Thrust’

The bench observed that forcing a minor to continue with a pregnancy resulting from rape would add to the suffering already endured. It noted the pain and humiliation faced by the victim and her mother, underlining the need for sensitivity in such cases.

Court Flags Need For Legal Reform

The court also asked the Centre to examine whether existing laws should be amended to allow termination of pregnancies beyond the current 20-week limit in cases involving rape survivors.

‘Law Must Evolve With Time’

Stressing the need for a more flexible legal framework, the court said there should ideally be no rigid time limit in such cases. “When there is pregnancy due to rape, there should not be time limit. Law needs to be organic and in sync with evolving time," the court observed.

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