Sep 22, Kathmandu - Nepal is poised to amend its laws to grant women the right to undergo abortion at any stage of pregnancy if their life is at risk or in cases of fetal abnormalities. The proposed "Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Health Rights Amendment Bill 2075," filed by Health Minister Nisha Mehtā in the House of Representatives, aims to make abortion more accessible and safeguard women's health and rights.

Currently, Nepalese law permits abortion only up to 28 weeks, even if medical professionals advise that the woman's life is in danger or the fetus has disabilities. The new legislation proposes removing this restriction, allowing women to terminate pregnancies regardless of gestational age under specific circumstances, such as genetic disorders, fetal deformities, or health risks.

Additionally, the bill addresses cases involving minors under 18 who become pregnant due to rape or incest, permitting abortion at any stage of pregnancy. It also emphasizes informed consent, requiring women to agree to the procedure, and mandates that health facilities and professionals be registered to provide safe services.

Notably, the bill criminalizes violence against pregnant women, including physical, mental, and sexual abuse, with penalties of three to six months in prison and fines up to NPR 50,000.

The bill will undergo further discussions and amendments in Parliament before passing through both houses and receiving presidential approval to become law.