Her soul is consoled: Savita Halappanavar's parents welcome Ireland abortion vote

Ireland's historic decision to vote against its regressive abortion law has been welcomed by Savita Halappanavar's parents. Savita lost her life due to septic miscarriage five days later she was denied an abortion at University Hospital Galway, Ireland in 2012.

"Our daughter's soul is now consoled," the parents expressed. 

"It is a landslide opinion in favour of repeal of the abortion laws that have supported our cause," Savita's father Andanappa Yalagi told media.

31-year-old Halappanavar was 17 weeks pregnant when she was admitted to University Hospital Galway in Ireland due to septic miscarriage. She died five days after she was refused a termination. The incident outraged people all across, especially those who belonged to the Indian community. 

A widespread public debate eventually mounted pressure on the Irish government forcing it to change the abortion legislation and allowing the procedure in cases where there is a threat to mother's life. However, termination of pregnancy in cases of foetal abnormalities, pregnancy complications, miscarriage, rape was still prohibited. 

On May 25, Ireland voted 'Yes' and in favour of repealing the eighth amendment of the Irish constitution. 

Ireland's Catholic church had strongly opposed repealing the law.

(With inputs from PTI)