CMOs, doctors often unaware of procedures for abortion, issue SoPs: HC to UP

THE ALLAHABAD High Court has directed the UP government to issue SoPs for Chief Medical Officers and Medical Boards when dealing with examinations of pregnant patients and abortions in sexual assault cases.

The court issued the directive to the Principal Secretary for Medical Health and Family Welfare while observing that medical officials who examine victims of sexual assault are often not adequately informed about procedures, referring in particular to cases where abortion has been sought.

“One has to keep in mind the sensitivity involved in the entire process and it is a matter of grave concern that doctors in some of the districts are not at all familiar with the above legislation and the procedure established by the Supreme Court,” the court said Thursday. It was hearing a petition seeking permission for the medical termination of pregnancy of a minor victim.