The death of Twisha Sharma has reignited discussions around reproductive rights, abortion access, and women’s healthcare in India. The 33-year-old woman was found dead at her marital home in Bhopal on May 12, with reports suggesting she had undergone a medical termination of pregnancy days earlier. Allegations of dowry harassment, emotional pressure, and coercion have surfaced, while the matter is now under investigation.
The case has also drawn attention to the legal framework governing abortion in India and the challenges women continue to face while making deeply personal reproductive decisions.
Is Abortion Legal In India?
India allows abortion under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, commonly known as the MTP Act. Initially introduced in 1971 and amended in 2021, the law permits termination of pregnancy under specific medical and humanitarian grounds.
Under current rules, abortion is allowed up to 20 weeks of pregnancy with the approval of one registered medical practitioner. Between 20 and 24 weeks, the opinion of two doctors is required for certain categories, including survivors of rape, minors, women with disabilities, or women facing major changes in personal circumstances.
Beyond 24 weeks, termination is generally permitted only in cases involving severe foetal abnormalities or risk to the woman’s life, subject to approval by a medical board.
Importantly, the law recognises that only the pregnant woman’s consent is necessary for an abortion. Permission from a husband, partner, or family members is not legally required for adult women.
Rights Of Married And Unmarried Women
The law allows married women to seek abortion in cases of contraceptive failure. Following the 2021 amendment, unmarried women were also granted similar rights, expanding access to safe reproductive healthcare.
For pregnancies up to 12 weeks, one doctor’s opinion is sufficient. Between 12 and 20 weeks, approval from two doctors is mandatory. Abortions performed by unregistered practitioners or in unauthorised facilities remain illegal and punishable.
Medical Abortion And Safety
Medical abortion through prescribed pills is considered safe under professional supervision, particularly during early pregnancy. Health experts stress that procedures conducted at authorised centres carry low complication risks when proper protocols are followed.
Doctors also highlight the importance of emotional support, counselling, and post-procedure care, as reproductive decisions can involve psychological, social, and financial pressures.
Challenges Beyond The Law
Although India’s abortion laws are considered relatively progressive, access to services still varies significantly across regions. Social stigma, lack of awareness, limited healthcare infrastructure, and fear of judgment continue to affect women seeking reproductive care.
Experts say that safe abortion should be accompanied by accessible counselling, privacy protections, and informed medical guidance to ensure women can make decisions without coercion or fear.
Why The Debate Matters
The ongoing investigation into the Twisha Sharma matter has once again highlighted how reproductive health, mental wellbeing, family dynamics, and legal rights often intersect in complex ways. While authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case, the broader conversation has renewed attention on women’s autonomy and access to safe healthcare in India.