The Supreme Court of India has allowed the first-ever passive euthanasia death in India, approving the withdrawal of life-support treatment for a terminally ill patient.
The court granted permission after reviewing medical reports and the request from the patient’s family, saying the decision followed existing legal guidelines governing passive euthanasia in the country.
Passive euthanasia refers to allowing a patient to die by withdrawing medical treatment or life-support systems that are keeping the person alive, particularly when doctors determine that recovery is no longer possible.
Legal and medical experts say the decision marks a significant moment in discussions about patients’ rights, end-of-life care, and ethical medical practices in India.