The Karnataka High Court has highlighted a troubling issue: the widespread illegal abortion of female foetuses in various regions of the state, particularly in Mysuru and Mandya districts. The court’s remarks came in response to a case involving several individuals accused of facilitating such illegal activities.
Case Details and Accusations
A single judge bench, led by Justice M G Uma, was dealing with the anticipatory bail application filed by Dhananje Gowda and two others. The petitioners faced serious charges under Sections 312, 314, 315, and 316 of the Indian Penal Code, as well as Section 4 of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act. These charges relate to their alleged involvement in inducing pregnant women to abort female foetuses at various medical centers, where they reportedly received a commission for each illegal termination.
Court’s Ruling on Anticipatory Bail
Justice Uma observed that the petitioners, identified as accused Nos. 6, 7, and 9, were involved as intermediaries who directed pregnant women towards illegal abortions. The court noted that these individuals had not cooperated with the investigation since the First Information Report was filed on April 24, 2024.
Given the gravity of the charges and the ongoing investigation, the court concluded that anticipatory bail should not be granted. The petitioners were deemed necessary for custodial interrogation to further the investigation. Consequently, the court dismissed their petition for anticipatory bail.
Case details : : Dhananje Gowda & Others vs. State of Karnataka
Case No: CRIMINAL PETITION NO. 6091 OF 2024 C/W CRIMINAL PETITION NO. 5099 OF 2024