Assault on Pregnant Woman in Uttarakhand Results in Death of Unborn Child

Vikas Nagar, Dehradun District, Uttarakhand: An eight-month pregnant woman was allegedly assaulted by her husband following a domestic dispute in Vikas Nagar, Dehradun. According to police, the accused repeatedly kicked and beat the woman, including on her abdomen, causing serious injuries. She was admitted to hospital in critical condition, where doctors later found that the unborn child could not be saved. Following a complaint by the victim’s family, the husband was arrested and a criminal case was registered. The family has also alleged that the accused had previously pressured the woman to undergo a sex-determination test. 

Legal Significance 

This incident raises serious concerns regarding domestic violence and crimes against pregnant women. The accused may face charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS) for causing grievous injuries and for acts leading to the death of the unborn child. The allegations relating to pressure for prenatal sex determination may also attract provisions of the PCPNDT Act, 1994. The case highlights the need for stronger protection of women’s reproductive rights and stricter enforcement of laws addressing domestic abuse and gender-based violence. 

📰 Source: Reporter live (English)