On the implications of euthanasia in India
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· Health policy & public health· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The Supreme Court allowed the withdrawal of Clinically Assisted Nutrition and Hydration for a terminally ill patient in Harish Rana v. Union of India (2026), advancing the legal framework for passive euthanasia.
Background
The Supreme Court's ruling in Harish Rana v. Union of India (2026) permits the withdrawal of nutrition and hydration for terminally ill patients. The decision builds on the Aruna Shanbaug v. Union of India (2011) precedent regarding the right to die with dignity.
Facts for Prelims
- ConstitutionArticle 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to life, which includes the right to die with dignity.
- FactThe Harish Rana v. Union of India (2026) case specifically addressed the withdrawal of Clinically Assisted Nutrition and Hydration.
- FactThe Aruna Shanbaug v. Union of India (2011) case established the legal basis for passive euthanasia in India.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the ethical and legal complexities surrounding passive euthanasia in India, balancing the principle of patient autonomy against the risk of exploitation of vulnerable populations.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Ethical conflict: Balancing the principle of beneficence for the patient against the risk of non-maleficence through potential misuse.
- Regulatory gap: Need for clear protocols to prevent economic pressures from influencing end-of-life medical decisions.
- Constitutional interpretation: Expanding the scope of Article 21 to include the right to a dignified death.
Keywords: Patient Autonomy · Passive Euthanasia · Right to Life · Beneficence · Non-maleficence · Vulnerable Populations
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