Passive Euthanasia: Operationalising The Right To Die With Dignity [Case Comment On Harish Rana V. Union Of India (2026)]
- IJLLR Journal
- Apr 11
- 1 min read
Shivani Kumari; LL.B., Law Centre-1, Faculty of Law, University of Delhi.
“Death is not always the enemy of life; sometimes, it is the final refuge of dignity.”
ABSTRACT
The case of Harish Rana v Union of India (2026) marks a paradigm shift in the euthanasia laws in our country. The case, authored by a two-judge bench, analyses the tussle between the sanctity of life and constitutional morality. Through this case, the application of the guidelines in the judgment of Common Cause v Union of India (2018) can be seen for the first time in our country by allowing passive euthanasia and ensuring the right to die with dignity under Article 21. It provides a comprehensive interpretation and streamlining of the procedure for withdrawing life-sustaining medical treatment, especially Clinically Assisted Nutrition and Hydration (CANH).
Keywords: Article 21, Right to die with dignity, passive euthanasia, CANH, best interest principle
