THE IGNORED FRONTIER: EXPLORING WOMEN'S RIGHTS IN ABORTION AND FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION IN INDIA
ABSTRACT
This article presents a nuanced view of the evolution of reproductive rights in India, with a specific focus on the legal landscapes surrounding abortion and the practice of female genital mutilation. It traces the historical trajectory from the contentious criminalization of miscarriage in the 1960s to the enactment of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act in 1971. Furthermore, it highlights the pivotal 2021 Amendment to the MTP Act of 1971 and its consequential 2022 judgment of X v. NCT of Delhi, which underscores the ongoing evolution of reproductive rights in the country. Parallelly, the article delves into the shadowy realm of FGM in India, highlighting its origins, prevalence, and the intricate web of legal and health repercussions it entails. It confronts the challenges faced by the government in tackling this unregulated practice, including the cloak of religious sanction and the dearth of official data. Moreover, the narrative advocates for heightened awareness campaigns, urgent medical interventions for FGM survivors, and stringent legal measures against its proponents. Throughout its discourse, the article underscores the importance of a compassionate and rights-based approach to reproductive rights. It calls for a comprehensive strategy that includes legal reforms, awareness campaigns, and support services for survivors.
