In India, the MTP (Amendment) Act 2021 extended the gestational limit for termination with approval of two registered medical practitioners from 20 to 24 weeks for specific categories. Which of the following groups is specifically included in this extended 20–24 week window under the MTP Act 2021?

• A All women above 21 years of age at their own request
• B Women with financial hardship preventing childcare
• C All married women up to 24 weeks without restriction
• D Survivors of rape, victims of incest, minors, disabled women, and women whose marital status changed during pregnancy ✓

Explanation

The MTP Amendment Act 2021 expanded the upper gestational limit for termination with 2 doctors' opinion from 20 to 24 weeks for specified categories: survivors of rape, victims of sexual assault or incest, minors, women with change in marital status during pregnancy (widowhood or divorce), women with physical disabilities, mentally ill women, and pregnancies with foetal abnormalities. Beyond 24 weeks, termination is only permitted if a state-level medical board certifies substantial foetal anomaly. General financial hardship or being above 21 years does not independently qualify.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.