What is passive euthanasia? All you need to know
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Health policy & public health· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The Supreme Court of India allowed the withdrawal of life support for a 32-year-old patient, marking the first practical application of passive euthanasia by the apex court.
Background
The court ruled on the case of Harish Rana, who had been bedridden for over 13 years due to severe head injuries. The decision followed consultations with the patient's family, medical boards, and legal counsel.
Facts for Prelims
- PostSupreme Court: The apex court of India responsible for the ruling on passive euthanasia.
- FactHarish Rana: A 32-year-old patient bedridden for over 13 years due to head injuries.
- FactPassive Euthanasia: The withdrawal of life support for terminally ill patients.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the ethical and legal complexities surrounding passive euthanasia in India, balancing the right to life with the right to die with dignity.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Medical ethics: Balancing the physician's duty to preserve life against the patient's right to dignity
- Judicial oversight: Ensuring procedural safeguards to prevent misuse of life-support withdrawal
- Legal ambiguity: Distinguishing between active euthanasia and passive withdrawal of treatment
Keywords: Right to life · Passive euthanasia · Medical ethics · Judicial review · Dignity
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