A SOCIO LEGAL ANALYSIS OF THE DECRIMINALIZATION OF ABORTION IN INDIA
Keywords:
Abortion, Decriminalization, Reproductive Rights, Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, Women's Rights, Bodily Autonomy, Reproductive Justice, Constitutional Law, Healthcare AccessAbstract
In India, the legalization of abortion is regulated by law, court interpretations, women's reproductive rights, and healthcare access. Reproductive autonomy is influenced by the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971, which was updated in 2021, and the abortion criminal law of the Indian Penal Code. The research indicates that, despite legal reforms, secure and legal abortion services are impeded by social, cultural, economic, and gender barriers. It assesses the extent to which physiological autonomy, dignity, privacy, and equality are safeguarded by human rights, constitutional principles, and legislation. Secondary literature, policy papers, case law, and statutes are employed in doctrinal and analytical research. India has expanded abortion access; however, comprehensive legalization and rights-based legal reforms are required to eliminate stigma, promote equitable healthcare, and achieve reproductive justice for all pregnant women.
