Why in news?
Debates around end‑of‑life care have gained attention in India. Passive euthanasia—allowing a terminally ill person to die by withdrawing life support—has been legally permissible since a landmark Supreme Court judgment. In recent years the Court has refined procedures to make the process clearer and to respect patient autonomy.
Types of euthanasia
Euthanasia means intentionally ending a person’s life to relieve suffering. It can be voluntary (with the patient’s consent), non‑voluntary (where the patient cannot consent) or involuntary (against the patient’s wishes, which is illegal). It can also be classified as:
- Active euthanasia: Taking direct action to cause death, such as administering a lethal injection. This remains illegal in India.
- Passive euthanasia: Withholding or withdrawing medical treatment (such as ventilators or feeding tubes) that sustains life. This is allowed under certain conditions.
Legal developments in India
- Aruna Shanbaug case (2011): The Supreme Court recognised that doctors could withdraw life support from patients in a permanent vegetative state, but required approval from the High Court and a medical board.
- Common Cause judgment (2018): The Court affirmed that the right to live with dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution includes the right to die in certain circumstances. It legalised advance directives or “living wills” through which individuals can state their wishes about future medical treatment.
- Simplified guidelines (2023): To streamline the process, the Court removed the requirement of a judicial magistrate and allowed treating physicians to form a primary medical board. The decision of this board is reviewed by a district medical board. The patient’s family and hospital ethics committee must be consulted.
Arguments for and against
- For: Respecting patient autonomy, avoiding prolonged suffering and reducing futile medical expenses. Proponents argue that compassionate end‑of‑life care includes the option to allow natural death.
- Against: Critics cite the sanctity of life, religious beliefs and potential for abuse. They worry vulnerable patients may be pressured to withdraw life support due to cost or family burden.
The way forward
- Improve awareness about living wills and the legal procedure for passive euthanasia.
- Establish hospital ethics committees and palliative care services to guide families and doctors.
- Ensure transparency and oversight to prevent coercion and misuse.
- Continue public debate to balance moral, legal and medical perspectives.