Background Information
Hinduism’s stance on abortion is complex and varies from one denomination to another. According to ancient Hindu texts, life begins with the first breath. The soul and body sometimes become inseparably interwoven, meaning abortion is seen as a violation of the soul’s entry into the body. However, in some interpretations, a soul can enter the body at any time before it takes its first breath. hence, abortions in the first trimester are not considered sinful. Moreover, the scriptures also sanction abortion when the life of the pregnant woman is under threat.
Religious Perspectives
Religious leaders around the world have divided opinions on abortion. Hinduism’s fundamental scriptures condemn abortion, but they always take into account the safety and well-being of a pregnant woman. Abortion is not allowed unless it is done to save the life of the mother or in cases where the pregnancy comes as a result of rape or incest.
Among traditional Hindu texts, the Manusmriti (Laws of Manu), one of the most ancient Hindu texts, allows abortion. The Manusmriti provides that in a fit of anger or with a view to save the mother from harm, an abortion may occasionally be allowed. It further suggests that if the mother’s life is in danger, then abortion should be performed. On the other hand, the Vishnu Smriti, which dates back to the fifteenth century,suggests that abortion is prohibited unless done for medical reasons or if the pregnancy is the result of a crime.
Modern Perspectives
In modern India, abortion is legal, but only when the woman’s life is in danger. This can be due to physical or psychological reasons. Additionally, the law allows abortion in cases of rape and if the foetus is genetically deformed. Moreover, abortions can be performed up to 20 weeks into the pregnancy.
Although abortion is legal in India, religious leaders and some members of society consider abortion to be wrong. Some religious leaders prefer abstinence rather than abortion, as they believe the foetus should be respected from the moment of conception.
Judicial Perspective
India’s Supreme Court has taken a moderate view when it comes to abortion. In a landmark case, the court granted a woman permission to abort her foetus at 25 weeks. The court also stated that although abortion should be discouraged, it was not a crime if done with the consent of the mother.
The court also defined a “foetal viability” as a term used to describe the potential of the foetus to survive outside the womb. This ruling allowed women more freedom when it comes to abortion. This decision sought to protect the safety and well-being of the pregnant woman.
Medical Perspectives
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) supports abortion in cases where the pregnant woman’s life is under threat or in cases of rape or incest. The IMA vehemently opposes any law that does not consider the medical needs of the pregnant women. According to the IMA, the decision to abort should be solely left to the pregnant woman, her family and her healthcare professionals.
The IMA also promotes the use of contraception as an alternative to abortion. The IMA is of the opinion that contraception is a far better option than abortion, as it can prevent unwanted pregnancies altogether.
Economic Perspectives
The Indian economy has not been able to benefit from abortion laws, due to the country’s high population. In order to control population growth and reduce poverty, the Indian government has implemented strict laws and strategies to discourage abortion.
However, the government has overlooked the fact that abortions can be used to reduce poverty. Studies have shown that allowing access to safe abortions can help reduce poverty among women, who are more likely to be economically disadvantaged compared to men.
Women’s Perspectives
When it comes to abortion, women in India have faced numerous obstacles and discrimination. This is primarily due to the stigma surrounding abortion. Women’s rights activists and organisations are pushing for more accessible and affordable abortion services.
Studies have shown that when women have access to safe abortions, they tend to be better educated, employed and financially secure than those who don’t have access to safe abortions. Additionally, women are more likely to use contraception when they have access to safe abortion services.
Conclusion
When it comes to Hinduism and abortion, there is no clear cut answer. Different denominations hold varying views and interpretations. The Indian government’s stance has been relatively moderate, allowing abortion in cases where the life of the mother is at risk or if the pregnancy is the result of rape of incest. The Indian Medical Association and women’s rights organisations are at the forefront of advocating for better access to safe abortion services.
