Mercy Killing/Euthanasia

The matter of mercy killing was examined by the Department of Health & Family Welfare in consultation with the Ministry of Law & Justice, and after examination, it has been decided that the Hon’ble Supreme Court has laid down the law on the subject in its judgment in Aruna Ramchandra Shanbaug’s case which will be followed in all such cases. Presently, there is no proposal to enact any legislation on the subject and the judgment of the Supreme Court is binding on all. 

 

The representations received in the matter are examined in consultation with the Directorate General of Health Services and, based on such examination, a response is sent to the persons from whom the representation had been received as per the guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court on euthanasia in its judgment in WRIT PETITION (CRIMINAL) NO. 115 OF 2009- Aruna Ramchandra Shanbaug Vs UoI and others. 

 

The Health Minister was replying to a question in the LokSabha here today.