Indian to ban surrogacy for gays, married couples and more

India has decided to move forward with their bill to ban surrogacy. The Surrogacy Bill 2016 bars gay couples, overseas Indians and single parents from having a child through surrogacy.

CBS News reports that infertile couples will still be able to seek a surrogate but it must be a relative and infertility groups have criticised the law, stating that it could lead to an illegal industry.

If the bill passes, those who break the law could face up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to one million rupees (Around £113,00).

Surrogacy is a popular business in India as overseas couples turn to the country because of its cheap costs and surrogate mothers in India can earn around £6,000.

In an interview with the Deccan Chronicle the director of the Indian Council of Medical Research stated that the bill does’t discriminate against homosexuals.

“This is a side issue. There is a very small proportion of people needing surrogacy. Gay people have an option of adoption. So it’s not that all the doors are closed for them.”

The bill is expected to pass next session and if it does, the ban will come into effect 10 months later to allow surrogate who are already pregnant to give birth.

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