Gynaecologist calls for privacy and safe abortion access for minors in consensual relationships in Mumbai

A Mumbai gynaecologist has urged the Bombay High Court to allow minors in consensual relationships to access safe abortion services while maintaining their privacy. Dr. Nikhil Datar submitted recommendations to the public health department to address this issue. The recommendations include a "cool-off period" for minors aged 15 to 18, allowing them to consent to abortion without police involvement if they are in consensual relationships. The petitioners also suggested obtaining written consent from guardians to keep the minor's identity confidential. The High Court previously allowed a 16-year-old to have an abortion without revealing her identity but noted a conflict between two laws. The court has asked the health department to respond to the recommendations within four weeks.