Illegal aboion of a woman with her consent is punishable under –
**Core Concept**
The question pertains to the penal code regarding abortion, specifically the circumstances under which it is deemed a punishable offense. The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, and the Indian Penal Code (IPC) provide the legal framework for abortion in India.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The Indian Penal Code, Section 312, defines causing a miscarriage as an offense. This section specifically pertains to the situation where a woman undergoes an abortion without her consent or with her consent obtained by force, coercion, or undue influence. In the case of a woman consenting to an abortion, the offense is committed by the person performing the abortion, but not by the woman herself. However, if the abortion is performed without the woman's consent, then she is also considered an abettor and can be charged under the IPC.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because Section 312 of the IPC specifically deals with causing a miscarriage, which is the offense in question. However, it does not pertain to the situation where the woman consents to the abortion.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because Section 312 of the IPC specifically deals with causing a miscarriage, which is the offense in question. However, it does not pertain to the situation where the woman consents to the abortion.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because Section 312 of the IPC specifically deals with causing a miscarriage, which is the offense in question. However, it does not pertain to the situation where the woman consents to the abortion.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In India, the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, regulates the performance of abortions. The Act permits abortions up to 20 weeks of pregnancy with the approval of one or two medical practitioners, depending on the gestational age.
**Correct Answer:** C.