The Legal Status Of Euthanasia In India: A Comprehensive Review Of Supreme Court Directives And New Draft Guidelines
- IJLLR Journal
- Aug 18
- 1 min read
Anu Thomas, LLM, Government Law College, Trivandrum
“Life sans dignity is an unacceptable defeat, and life that meets death with dignity is a value to be aspired for and a moment for celebration.”– Supreme Court of India.
ABSTRACT
Life and death, traditionally natural processes beyond human control, are now influenced by medical advancements that enable the prolongation or termination of life. Indian law, society, and the state uphold the sanctity of life, protecting it from undue interference. Central to this protection is the right to live with dignity, enshrined under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. This article examines whether this right extends to a right to die with dignity through euthanasia. It analyzes the constitutional and legal framework of euthanasia in India, tracing its judicial evolution through landmark Supreme Court rulings. The article evaluates the 2024 Draft Guidelines for Withdrawal of Life Support in Terminally Ill Patients. By exploring global perspectives, ethical dilemmas, and alternative remedies like palliative care, it underscores the need for legislation to balance autonomy and safeguards. The discussion navigates India’s socio-cultural and economic context, advocating a humane approach to end-of-life care.
Keywords: Euthanasia, Right to Die, Article 21, Passive Euthanasia, Dignity
