A Class 10 student delivered a baby during her board examination at an examination centre in Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh, prompting a police investigation.
According to reports, the minor began experiencing severe abdominal pain while writing her examination paper. She requested to use the school washroom, where she delivered the baby.
School authorities were alerted after staff noticed prolonged absence of the student and went to check on her. They discovered the newborn and the girl in the washroom. Both the newborn and the student were shifted to a nearby primary health care centre for medical care. Their condition was reported as stable.
Police officials later stated that the minor informed authorities she had allegedly been subjected to repeated sexual assault over several months by a youth known to her. The youth reportedly blackmailed her to repeatedly assault her physically and this went on since the girl was scared to disclose it to anybody fearing social stigma. A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway under relevant provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Teenage pregnancy refers to pregnancy occurring in girls aged 13–19 years. It remains a significant public health issue in India, particularly in rural and socio-economically vulnerable populations.
According to the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI) report on Teenage Pregnancy and Child Marriage Impact, early pregnancies are associated with:
Increased maternal health risks
Greater likelihood of obstetric complications
Elevated risk of preterm birth and low birth weight
Psychological and social consequences
The report highlights that teenage mothers face higher risks of complications such as obstructed labour, hypertensive disorders, and postpartum health challenges. Social factors such as child marriage, lack of reproductive health education, and sexual violence contribute significantly to adolescent pregnancies in India.
National health surveys have consistently indicated that adolescent pregnancies are more prevalent in certain rural regions and among economically disadvantaged communities.
Since the student is a minor, any sexual activity involving her constitutes a criminal offence under Indian law. Authorities have stated that statements are being recorded and medical examinations conducted as part of the investigation.
Under the POCSO Act, cases involving minors are handled through a child-sensitive judicial process.
(Rh)