Now Reading: Speaker Prabhakar criticised for joining anti-abortion rally in Chennai
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Speaker Prabhakar criticised for joining anti-abortion rally in Chennai
Speaker Prabhakar criticised for joining anti-abortion rally in Chennai
Tamil Nadu Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar attended the ‘March for Life’ rally at Stella Maris College, Chennai, on August 8-9, 2026, an event described as ‘pro-life’ and opposing abortion. Activists have criticised the…
The Story in Brief
Tamil Nadu Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar attended the ‘March for Life’ rally at Stella Maris College, Chennai, on August 8-9, 2026, an event described as ‘pro-life’ and opposing abortion. Activists have criticised the constitutional office-holder for lending his presence to a campaign they say promotes a fundamentalist stance on reproductive rights.
The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971, legalises abortion in India under specific conditions. Author-activist Shalin Maria Lawrence told The Hindu that the Speaker’s participation sets a wrong precedent, especially when women still face stigma and unsafe abortions. The Speaker reportedly said the rally affirmed that every unborn child has dignity and a ‘God-given intention’.
The Indian Opinion
Both sides have valid concerns: activists rightly worry that a constitutional Speaker endorsing a religiously charged anti-abortion rally could erode women’s access to safe abortion, while others may argue that his personal beliefs are his own. The real test is whether Mr Prabhakar, as Speaker, will now ensure his office remains neutral on matters of law and health. A clear statement on upholding the MTP Act would settle the question.
Source: thehindu.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
