Short 150 To 500 Words Essay On Abortion In India

Abortion has been controversial in India for decades. On the one hand, India legalized abortion in 1971 to limit population growth and reduce unsafe practices. On the other hand, activists fight for women’s reproductive rights and access to safe procedures. India’s debate on abortion is complex. It is shaped by social, economic and religious factors.

Abortion In India Essay

Abortion has been legal in India under some conditions since 1971. The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act allows abortion up to 12 weeks. It allows up to 20 weeks in exceptional cases.

The WHO estimates 15.6 million abortions annually in India. The actual number may be higher due to insufficient reporting and unclear laws. Experts estimate over 6 million unsafe abortions occur each year. They contribute to 8% of maternal deaths.

Poverty, gender inequality and unwanted pregnancies drive high abortion rates. Financial hardship and social stigma push some women, especially unmarried women, to abort. Many lack access to contraceptives and family planning.

Religious views on abortion vary in India. Most major religions officially oppose elective abortions, but interpretations differ. Traditional and orthodox followers usually have more restrictive ideas. However, secular views also shape opinions.

Abortion laws and attitudes differ significantly across India’s states. Conservative, traditionally governed states tend to have more restrictions and disapprove of abortion more. Urban centers and economically progressive states accept women’s reproductive choices more.

Public debates on abortion in India often pit women’s health and autonomy against fetal rights, religion and social norms. Some want to expand access and legalize abortion on demand. Others wish for more restrictions based on moral and ethical grounds.

Conclusion

Reducing unsafe abortions and maternal deaths requires comprehensive solutions. Improving contraceptive access, sex education, gender equality, and support for mothers could reduce the need for abortion while respecting women’s choices. Finding solutions that balance health, ethics, and pluralism could help progress India’s nuanced abortion debate.

As India develops economically and socially, its views on abortion will evolve. However, protecting women’s health and expanding reproductive choices in ethical ways should remain priorities for a just, compassionate society.