Rohtak rape victim in hospital to undergo abortion

Doctors at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (PGIMS) on Wednesday launched the process of terminating the pregnancy of a 10-year-old girl who was allegedly raped by her step-father on multiple occasions.

Dr Raj Singh Sangwan, chairman of the district child welfare committee (CWC), said the hospital administered abortion medicines around noon. “The process may take 12 to 24 hours,” he told HT. “Going by the girl’s health, doctors are positive of success.”

The process began a day after a local court asked the hospital to abide by the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act in dealing with the issue. The law does not permit abortion if the period of pregnancy has crossed 20 weeks.

The medical board, which found the foetus to be anywhere between 18 and 22 weeks of age, decided on abortion over delivery because it was the relatively safer option for the victim. “A team of expert doctors will keep vigil over her until the process is completed,” said Dr Prashant Kumar from the PGIMS.

Sangwan said the minor, who was in a state of shock, has not uttered a word since her arrival at the hospital.

“A five-member CWC bench counselled her for five hours on Tuesday, and she is responding positively,” he added.

The district child welfare committee has asked PGIMS authorities to take special care of the girl and ensure that all her dietary needs are met.