Karnataka Allows Dignified Death for Terminally Ill

Why in the news?

Karnataka became the second state, after Kerala, to implement the Supreme Court’s directive permitting withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment for terminally ill patients with no hope of recovery, enabling them to choose a dignified death.

Karnataka Allows Dignified Death for Terminally Ill

Karnataka Implements Right to Die with Dignity:

  • Karnataka has issued an order implementing the Supreme Court’s January 24, 2023 ruling on withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment for terminally ill patients.
  • This decision allows terminally ill patients with no hope of recovery to choose a dignified end to life.

Second State to Implement the Ruling:

  • Karnataka becomes the second state in India, after Kerala, to follow the Supreme Court’s directive.
  • The move aligns with India’s evolving stance on end-of-life care and patients’ rights.

Significance of the Decision:

  • The order supports patients’ autonomy, allowing them to decline futile treatments in terminal cases.
  • It aims to provide relief to patients and families from prolonged suffering.
  • The decision is expected to encourage discussions on palliative care and ethical healthcare practices.
  • The implementation sets a precedent for other states to adopt similar measures in line with the Supreme Court’s landmark directive.

What is Euthanasia?

  • Euthanasia involves a physician administering a lethal substance to end a patient’s life.
  • It can be voluntary (with consent) or involuntary (when the patient cannot consent, e.g., coma).
  • Active Euthanasia: Deliberately performing an action, such as a lethal injection, to end life at the patient’s request.
  • Passive Euthanasia: Withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment (e.g., stopping ventilation) to allow natural death.
  • Active euthanasia is often illegal due to ethical and legal concerns.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times