Indore Workshop Focuses On Safe, Legal Abortion Services And Inter-Department Coordination

Indore hosted an inter-departmental workshop on Monday to observe International Safe Abortion Day, held each year on September 28. Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr Madhav Prasad Hasani noted that abortion, once deemed a criminal matter, has transformed into a legally protected healthcare service focused on preserving maternal health.

The speaker emphasized that evolving laws are essential, requiring coordinated efforts from the Health, Women and Child Development, Panchayat and Police departments for successful implementation.

MGM Hospital's gynaecologist Dr Hemlata Jharwade stated that the state government remains dedicated to offering safe abortion services. She elaborated on the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Amendment Act, 2021, which allows eligible women to access abortion services within legal parameters. Dr Sumitra Yadav, another MGM gynaecology professor, discussed the provisions of the PCPNDT Act and their significance in ensuring safe abortion services.

The workshop featured a panel discussion on the role of various departments in facilitating access to Comprehensive Abortion Care (CAC) services. Participants included officials and representatives from different departments, district health authorities, hospitals, and medical institutions. They deliberated on access, coordination, and the implementation of safe abortion services during the event held at Premlal Dua Auditorium in Indore.