Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Amendment Act, 2021

Background:

• The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971 (MTP Act) was enacted to regulate abortion services in India.

• Advances in medical science and the need for safer abortions prompted the amendment.

Key Provisions of the MTP Amendment Act, 2021:

Termination due to Failure of Contraceptive Method or Device:

• A married woman can terminate a pregnancy up to 20 weeks in case of contraceptive method or device failure.

• Unmarried women are also allowed to terminate a pregnancy for this reason.

Opinion Needed for Termination of Pregnancy:

• Up to 20 weeks of gestation, the opinion of one Registered Medical Practitioner (RMP) is required.

• For termination between 20-24 weeks, the opinion of two RMPs is necessary.

• After 24 weeks, a State-level medical board must approve termination in cases of substantial fetal abnormalities.

Upper Gestation Limit for Special Categories:

The amendment increases the upper gestation limit from 20 to 24 weeks for special categories of women:

• Rape survivors

• Victims of incest

• Other vulnerable women (such as differently abled women and minors)

Confidentiality:

• The identity of a woman whose pregnancy has been terminated shall remain confidential, except as authorized by law.

The MTP Amendment Act contributes to:

• Ending preventable maternal mortality.

• Meeting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to maternal health and reproductive rights.