Article summary
Abstract
Euthanasia, often described as the practice of ending a person’s life to relieve them from unbearable suffering, represents one of the most profound moral and legal dilemmas of our time. In India, the question of whether euthanasia should be legalised invites debate across ethical, constitutional, and social dimensions. The rapid progress of medical science has made it possible to extend life even in cases of irreversible illness, forcing society to reconsider the meaning of dignity and compassion in end-oflife care. The debate revolves around whether the right to life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution inherently includes the right to die with dignity. The judiciary, through landmark judgments, has cautiously recognised passive euthanasia under strict safeguards, marking a gradual shift from the preservation of life at all costs to a recognition of autonomy and relief from suffering. The issue, however, is not without complexity. Legalising euthanasia in India raises serious ethical and practical concerns, including the potential for misuse, the moral duties of doctors, and the need to protect vulnerable individuals from coercion. Balancing compassion with responsibility, and autonomy with societal values, remains a delicate task. This article examines the constitutional, ethical, and human dimensions of euthanasia, evaluating whether its legalisation aligns with the principles of justice, dignity, and humanity. It argues that with appropriate legal safeguards, medical protocols, and social awareness, euthanasia can be responsibly integrated into India’s legal framework as a compassionate response to terminal suffering.