Can I seek abortion if a criminal case related to my pregnancy has been filed/is underway (rape, POCSO, etc.)?
Yes, abortion can be sought in such cases.
Where pregnancy is caused due to rape, survivors are given the option to undergo an abortion, which is to be provided as an emergency healthcare service during the medical examination.[1]
You do not need to:
- File a FIR,
- Register a criminal case before the appropriate Court,
- Wait till the criminal trial has started or concluded, or
- Wait for an interim order, final order or judgment of the criminal case.
Select your gestation period to know more
Notes
1
Medical examination of rape survivors can only be conducted with their consent.