Unequal benefits for single mums is an issue of stigma

I disagree with the writer of “Unequal benefits for single unwed mums a matter of deterrence” (Aug 3).

While we may argue over the issue of giving single and married mothers similar benefits, the writer has compared the action of having a child out of wedlock to a crime.

There are many single mothers who are mature adults and who chose not to get married for personal reasons but decided to keep the baby.

Giving unequal benefits sends a message that single mothers do not deserve the support they need more than married women do. Are we trying to get the message across that single mothers should face further stigma or to encourage abortion?

Every Singaporean mother, married or single, should be entitled to full maternity benefits.