A 17-year-old unmarried woman at 7 weeks gestation voluntarily seeks termination at an approved facility. Under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act of India, whose written consent is legally mandatory?
- A Her own written consent along with that of her guardian ✓
- B Her own written consent alone
- C Her guardian's written consent alone
- D Her partner's written consent along with hers
Correct answer: A. Her own written consent along with that of her guardian
Explanation
Section 3 of the MTP Act states that if the woman is below 18 years of age, termination requires the written consent of her guardian in addition to her own consent. For an adult woman, her own informed written consent alone suffices and neither spousal nor parental consent is required, a point frequently tested. Partner consent has never been a legal prerequisite, which distinguishes this provision from requirements in some other jurisdictions.
Reference: Medical Termination of Pregnancy Amendment Act 2021, Government of India, 2021 ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.