WHY WE SHOULDN'T BAN THE MORNING-AFTER PILL

SOCIAL media was recently abuzz after a special report in this publication went viral. It referred to a subcommittee formed by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) that would likely impose a ban on over-the-counter sales of all hormonal contraceptives, including emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) in India. It evoked massive outrage, as it is a nightmarish move that impacts the bodily and sexual autonomy of all women.

- ANGELLICA ARIBAM

The policymakers seem to have taken "irrational overuse" as a reason for proposing this ban. It paints an inaccurate picture of women abusing these pills, which are associated with tremendous side effects, not as a means of survival but recreationally. Undoubtedly, it would be a gross misinterpretation of on-ground realities and neglects the issue of reproductive health inequity in India. Additionally, the introduction of a prescription from a doctor would be utopian, completely disregarding the stigma attached to sex in our society.

Many women rely on ECPs to avoid unwanted pregnancies arising out of various kinds of emergencies. Our country sees a high number of rape and sexual assault cases. In such scenarios, the traumatised victims may not be in a state of mind to see a gynaecologist or report the crime for years, but the availability of over-the-counter ECPs enables them to avoid pregnancy. Currently, even if the victim is in distress and unable to bring themselves to procure the pills, friends and family can easily step in. The introduction of a prescription acts as an unnecessary and life-threatening barrier.