What Is The Punishment For Abortion?

In India, the legal framework surrounding abortion is primarily governed by the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971 (MTP Act). Here's a detailed overview of the punishment associated with abortion:

1. Legal Abortions

Under the MTP Act, abortion is legal under specific circumstances:

• Up to 20 weeks of pregnancy if:
  • There is a risk to the woman's life or physical/mental health.
  • The fetus has a serious physical abnormality.
  • The pregnancy is a result of contraceptive failure.
• In cases of substantial risk to the mother’s life, abortion can be performed after 20 weeks under specific circumstances with the approval of a medical board.

2. Illegal Abortions

If an abortion is performed outside the legal framework, it is considered illegal. Punishments for illegal abortions include:

• For the Person Performing the Abortion:
  • Imprisonment for a term that may extend to three years and/or a fine.
• For the Woman Undergoing the Illegal Abortion:
  • The woman is generally not punished under the law, but she may face social stigma or other repercussions.

3. Repeat Offenders

If a medical professional is found to be performing illegal abortions repeatedly, they may face harsher penalties, including a longer term of imprisonment and stricter fines.

4. Related Offenses

If the abortion results in the death of the woman, the person performing the abortion could be charged with culpable homicide or murder, leading to severe penalties, including life imprisonment.

5. Recent Amendments

Amendments to the MTP Act have been proposed to extend the permissible period for abortions and to provide clearer guidelines for various situations. However, it is essential to refer to the latest legal updates for the most accurate information.

Conclusion

The punishment for abortion varies based on its legality. Legal abortions under the MTP Act are permissible with specific conditions, while illegal abortions can lead to imprisonment of up to three years for the practitioner. The woman undergoing an illegal abortion typically does not face legal penalties.