Delhi High Court Criticizes Medical Board for Inadequate Advice on Pregnancy Termination
Delhi High Court deprecates RML doctors’ board as it advises woman to continue 27-week pregnancy with signs of abnormalities detected in foetus
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
The Delhi High Court has criticized the medical board at Dr Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital for failing to provide a clear opinion on the termination of a 27-week pregnancy with detected fetal abnormalities. The court has directed the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) to reassess the case, emphasizing the importance of reproductive autonomy.
- 01The Delhi High Court deprecates RML Hospital's medical board for unclear advice on pregnancy termination.
- 02The woman, 29, sought termination due to fetal abnormalities posing health risks.
- 03The court directed AIIMS New Delhi to provide a definitive opinion on the case.
- 04Justice Kaurav highlighted the board's disregard for statutory guidelines under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act.
- 05The court warned that future compliance with directives is necessary to uphold reproductive rights.
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On Wednesday, the Delhi High Court expressed disapproval of the medical board at Dr Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital in New Delhi for not providing a clear recommendation regarding the termination of a 27-week pregnancy with identified fetal abnormalities. The woman, aged 29, had approached the court on May 1, citing significant risks to her health and the potential for sudden fetal death. Justice Purushaindra Kaurav directed the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) to reassess her case and clearly state the feasibility of terminating the pregnancy. The medical board's report advised continuing the pregnancy without adequately addressing the health risks outlined by the petitioner. Justice Kaurav criticized the board for neglecting the court's directives and emphasized the need for compliance with the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, which allows for termination beyond 24 weeks in cases of substantial fetal abnormalities. The court's decision underscores the importance of reproductive autonomy and the responsibilities of medical professionals in such sensitive cases.
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The court's decision may influence how medical boards assess and advise on pregnancy terminations in cases of fetal abnormalities, potentially improving patient care and adherence to legal standards.
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