In India, abortion is a legal right for all women, regardless of their marital status. The laws have become significantly more inclusive following the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Amendment Act of 2021 and subsequent Supreme Court rulings.

The law focuses on safety, privacy, and the autonomy of the woman. Here is a breakdown of the current legal landscape in 2025:

1. Legal Time Limits and Requirements

The number of doctors required for approval depends on the stage of the pregnancy:

• Up to 20 weeks: Abortion is legal with the opinion and approval of one Registered Medical Practitioner (RMP).

• 20 to 24 weeks: Abortion is permitted for specific categories of women (including survivors of rape, minors, and women with disabilities) with the approval of two RMPs.

• Beyond 24 weeks: Permitted only in cases of “substantial fetal abnormalities” as diagnosed by a state-level Medical Board.

2. Valid Grounds for Abortion

Under the MTP Act, a pregnancy can be terminated if:

• Continuation poses a risk to the woman’s physical or mental health.

• There is a risk of the child being born with serious physical or mental abnormalities.

• The pregnancy resulted from contraceptive failure (this now applies to both married and unmarried women).

• The pregnancy resulted from rape or incest.

3. Consent and Privacy

• Autonomy: If you are over 18, only your consent is required. You do not need the permission of a spouse, partner, or parent.

• Minors: For those under 18, written consent from a guardian is mandatory.

• Confidentiality: Doctors are legally bound to keep your identity and medical records private. Disclosing this information is a punishable offense.

4. Where to Seek Help

To ensure safety, abortions must only be performed by qualified doctors at government-approved facilities.

• Medical Abortion (Pills): Generally used up to 9 weeks and must be taken under medical supervision.

• Surgical Abortion: Performed at registered clinics or hospitals for later stages.

Important Note: Sex-selective abortion (terminating a pregnancy because of the gender of the fetus) is strictly illegal under the PCPNDT Act and carries heavy legal penalties.