In a historic move, Karnataka has become the first state in India to implement the Supreme Court’s ruling that allows terminally ill patients the ‘right to die with dignity.’ This landmark decision, notified on February 1, 2025, permits patients with no hope of recovery to withdraw life-sustaining treatment, ensuring they can pass away peacefully.
The Supreme Court’s ruling, delivered in January 2023, recognised the ‘right to die with dignity’ as part of the fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. It allows terminally ill individuals, including those in a persistent vegetative state, to opt for the withdrawal of life support when recovery is impossible.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao highlighted the importance of this decision, stating, “This is a compassionate step towards respecting individual choices in matters of life and death.” He also emphasised that this initiative would reduce the emotional and financial burden on families caring for patients with prolonged suffering.
Right to die to not similar to Euthanasia
It’s important to note that the ‘right to die with dignity’ is different from euthanasia. While euthanasia involves actively ending a life to relieve pain, this ruling focuses on allowing natural death by withdrawing medical interventions when recovery is beyond reach. This clarification ensures ethical and legal transparency.
Structured process for ethical decisions
To oversee the process, Karnataka’s health department has outlined a structured approach. The formation of both primary and secondary medical boards is mandated to review requests. These boards will include medical specialists such as neurologists and intensivists who will assess each case thoroughly.
The process begins with the treating physician’s recommendation, followed by evaluations from the medical boards. Final approval must be obtained from a judicial magistrate, ensuring that every decision is made ethically, with safeguards against potential misuse.
Advance medical directives
Karnataka has also introduced the Advance Medical Directive (AMD), similar to a living will. This allows individuals to record their preferences for medical treatment in advance. Patients can appoint trusted representatives to make healthcare decisions if they lose the ability to decide for themselves.
This provision strengthens patient autonomy and provides clarity for healthcare professionals, ensuring that treatment decisions align with the patient’s wishes.
A progressive step in healthcare
Karnataka’s implementation of the Supreme Court’s ruling reflects a progressive shift in end-of-life care. By acknowledging the suffering faced by terminally ill individuals, the state has set a compassionate example for the rest of the country.
The Logical Indian views this as a significant step towards fostering empathy, dignity, and respect in healthcare, ensuring that individuals have the right to make decisions about their own lives, even in their final moments.
