However, in 2011 the Supreme Court, while hearing the case of Shanbaug, had legalised passive euthanasia. For instance, if the patient is on life-support system, the deliberate removal of it will be termed passive euthanasia. In passive euthanasia, the measures to prolong the life of the patient are withdrawn. A draft bill by the Union health ministry on passive euthanasia, withholding medical treatment or life support system required to keep a patient alive, has once again stoked a debate over ‘right to life’ and ‘right to die with dignity’. “Government of India has decided to solicit public opinion/comments before formulation of Law on Passive Euthanasia… the opinion/comments may be sought by June 19, 2016,” the government circular said.

Source: Hindustan Times May 16, 2016 14:00 UTC