In a significant ruling, the Gauhati High Court has directed the medical termination of a 14-year-old rape survivor's pregnancy in Assam's Tinsukia district. The case was taken up suo motu by the court after a news report last month brought attention to the girl's situation, who was 23 weeks pregnant at the time.

The decision was made in accordance with the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, and following a Supreme Court ruling to protect the survivor's health and rights.

The High Court instructed the District Medical Board of Tinsukia, in collaboration with the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), to assemble a team of medical experts for the procedure. The state government will cover all medical and logistical expenses, including post-procedure care and any further healthcare needs.

The girl's parents and guardians have given their consent for the procedure following outreach efforts by the Tinsukia District Legal Services Authority (DLSA). Currently residing in a shelter home, the girl has also expressed her willingness to undergo the termination.

The division bench of Justice Kalyan Rai Surana and Justice Susmita Phukan Khaund highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that the termination was in the "best interest" of the minor, considering her age, the length of the pregnancy, and associated health risks.

The teenager was gang-raped by seven individuals, including four minors. They had lured her to a secluded spot when she was playing with her friend and took turns raping her.