Raising MTP limit from 20 Weeks to 24-26 weeks: We will soon take final call, Govt Tells Court

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However, the Law Ministry had returned the note saying that since both Houses of Parliament have been adjourned sine die, the administrative ministry may, as soon as the new government is sworn in, take a view in the matter after holding consultations with all stakeholders, the affidavit said.

Also read:- Doctors can perform MTP beyond 20 weeks without court permission to save woman’s life : Bombay HC

"In view of the above, the administrative ministry has already initiated the process of inter-ministerial consultation for the amendment in MTP Act 1971 and will finalise the same as soon as possible," the affidavit said.

The affidavit was filed in response to a PIL by social activist and lawyer, Amit Sahni, seeking raising of the time limit for terminating pregnancy in case of health risk to the mother or the foetus to 24-26 weeks, from the current cap of 20 weeks.

Also read:- 25-Week Foetus: HC directs AIIMS to examine pregnant lady seeking abortion

The petition has also contended that unmarried females and widows too should be allowed to undergo legal abortion.

The Supreme Court, in 2017, had declined to amend the Act which prohibits termination of pregnancy beyond 20 weeks, saying that the issue fell within the legislative realm.