Tamil Nadu Health Minister responds to abortion rally row involving Speaker

Published 12 August 2026 · health

Tamil Nadu Health Minister K.G. Arunraj said abortions are regulated through the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act. As per existing laws, a woman can legally

Tamil Nadu Health Minister K.G. Arunraj said abortions are regulated through the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act. As per existing laws, a woman can legally undergo abortion up to 20 weeks of pregnancy.

The Minister’s statement came after Assembly Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar’s participation in a pro-life rally ran into controversy and drew criticism. Mr. Arunraj said he was not sure of the context in which the Speaker made the remarks.

He told reporters on Monday (August 10, 2026) that the remarks should not be misinterpreted. The Act regulates the period within which a pregnancy may legally be terminated. Aspects such as the reasons for abortion and consent to be obtained are regulated under the Act.

“In many circumstances, abortions are medically required in the field of medicine and have to be done,” he added.

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