Right To Die With Dignity - Passive Euthanasia Permissible With Guidelines - Says SC

07:13 AM Mar 09, 2018 | G Plus News

In a historic decision taken on 9th March 2018, Friday, the Supreme Court had decided on right to die with dignity and said that persons with teminal illness can make 'living will' for passive euthanasia.

A 'living will' is made by a person, in his normal state of mind, seeking voluntary euthanasia in case of terminal illness, if he or she reaches an irreversible vegetative state.

A five judge constitution bench of the Supreme Court said passive euthanasia is permissible; the court has framed detailed guidelines using its extraordinary power.

The 'advance directives' can be issued and executed by 'next friend and relatives' of terminally ill people but a medical board to take a final call.

As per the guidelines of the Supreme Court, a family member or friend of the terminally ill person, seeking passive euthanasia can go to the High Court, which will constitute a medical board that will decide if passive euthanasia is needed.

(Sources)