In a rather timely decision, the Telangana High Court has issued a decision that is likely to bring light or rather children into the lives of childless couples. The High Court noted that women who were clinically unfit to bear children can now opt for surrogacy.
A 32-yr-old doctor along with her husband filed a petition in Hyderabad High Court questioning Appellate Authority’s ( health & family welfare) ruling that surrogacy is not allowed as an option.
The couple married in 2021 and were wanting a baby through surrogacy. While the Appellate Authority objected to their appeal calling one of the partners a transgender, the couple said the person suffered from a genetic disorder – complete androgen insensitivity syndrome or the lack of uterus and ovaries.
After hearing arguments, the High Court issued orders to the Health department that when couples have gene-related problems and chromosome problems, they can opt for surrogacy.
Surrogacy had become quite common in the past with many hospitals violating norms to make money. The entire surrogacy process had become commercial and gullible couples were duped. Even women who took up the role of surrogates were made part of the scam. Hence, the authorities decided to pass laws to stop such dubious activities.
However, as many couples suffer from infertility and other genetic problems, High Court’s ruling comes as a blessing for those looking to become parents.
It has to be remembered that marriage is not just a social bond. It also means producing future generations. Hence, the High Court ruling is being welcomed by many. However, health officials say strict rules must be in place to stop misuse of the judgement.
