Karnataka High Court Flags Rampant Instances Of Persons Inducing Pregnant Women To Illegally Abort Female Foetuses At Medical Centres

The Karnataka High Court has observed that instances of persons inducing pregnant ladies to undergo scanning and to abort the female foetus at various medical centres are very rampant in various parts of the state, especially Mysuru and Mandya districts.

A single judge bench Justice M G Uma observed thus while dismissing the anticipatory bail application filed by Dhananje Gowda and two others, who are charged for offences punishable under Sections 312, 314, 315, 316 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 4 of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, on the complaint filed by the District Health and Welfare officer.

It was alleged in the complaint that the accused allegedly induced pregnant ladies to undergo scanning and to abort the female foetus at various medical centres and used to collect a commission amount after every illegal termination of pregnancy.

The bench on going through the records said “These petitioners were arrayed as accused Nos. 6, 7 and 9, who were the middle men identifying the pregnant ladies, used to induce them to undergo MTP illegally. The allegations are very serious in nature.”

It added, “The first information came to be registered on 24.04.2024, till date, these petitioners have not appeared before the Investigating Officer.”

Thus it held “Considering the nature of the offence and allegations, I am of the opinion that the petitioners are not entitled for grant of anticipatory bail. The petitioners are required for custodial interrogation.”

Accordingly, it dismissed the petition.

Appearance: Advocate Kumara K.G for Petitioners

HCGP K.P.Yashodha for Respondent

Citation No: 2024 LiveLaw (Kar) 334

Case Title: Dhananje Gowda & Others AND State of Karnataka

Case No: CRIMINAL PETITION NO. 6091 OF 2024 C/W CRIMINAL PETITION NO. 5099 OF 2024

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