On January 31, the Supreme Court dismissed the appeal of a 26-year-old widow seeking late-term pregnancy termination, emphasizing the need to prioritize the protection of the fetus's right to life.

Termination was denied due to the gestation period exceeding the 24-week limit permitted by Rule 3(B) of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Rules.

The Court suggested adoption if she wished, on grounds of mental trauma following the birth of the newborn. 

Justices Bela M. Trivedi and Prasanna Bhalachandra Varale referred to the medical board's findings of no abnormalities in the fetus.

AIIMS recommended extending the pregnancy by two to three weeks for maternal and fetal well-being.

Seeking court permission, a medical board was formed to assess her health condition.