Karnataka’s Legal Step Toward End-of-Life Dignity
Karnataka Allows Medical Boards for Dignified Deaths: Euthanasia Guidelines Explained: In a landmark move, the state of Karnataka has allowed the formation of medical boards in hospitals to oversee and facilitate requests for dignified deaths. This decision aligns with the Supreme Court’s evolving stance on passive euthanasia, reaffirming that the right to die with dignity is an essential part of the right to life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. This step is based on the 2018 verdict in the Common Cause vs. Union of India case, and the updated guidelines issued by the Supreme Court in 2023.
What Is Passive Euthanasia?
Passive euthanasia refers to the withdrawal or withholding of life-sustaining treatment (WLST), allowing the person to die naturally from their underlying condition. It does not involve active intervention to cause death but respects the patient’s wish to avoid prolonged suffering when recovery is no longer possible. This form of euthanasia is legally valid in India and is now being streamlined with hospital-level oversight in Karnataka.
The Role of Living Will and Advance Medical Directive
A Living Will, also known as an Advance Medical Directive (AMD), plays a crucial role in passive euthanasia. It allows an adult of sound mind to declare their medical treatment preferences in advance in case they become incapable of making such decisions later. The AMD also names at least two trusted individuals who can make healthcare choices on their behalf. Karnataka’s implementation ensures that these wishes are honored through a structured and legal process.
Supreme Court’s 2023 Guidelines on WLST
According to the 2023 Supreme Court ruling, the withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy must be reviewed and approved through a clear three-tier process:
- Primary Medical Board: Constituted within the hospital, consisting of three qualified doctors.
- Secondary Medical Board: A separate board formed to independently validate the recommendation of the primary board.
- District Health Officer’s Nominee: One member is nominated to ensure transparency.
The treating doctor must approve the recommendation, and the consent of the patient’s next of kin is required. Finally, the approval of a Judicial Magistrate of First Class (JMFC) is essential before WLST can be executed.
Simplified Execution and Documentation
The AMD can be executed digitally or in paper format, and hospitals are instructed to maintain these records as part of the patient’s medical file. This legal document is vital in preventing unnecessary disputes, ensuring that the person’s end-of-life wishes are respected while safeguarding against misuse.
A Balancing Act Between Law and Compassion
By setting up dedicated medical boards for euthanasia requests, Karnataka becomes a pioneering state in institutionalizing dignified end-of-life care. The process remains strictly regulated to balance patient autonomy with ethical medical practice and judicial oversight. This initiative not only ensures legal compliance with the Supreme Court’s directives but also places human dignity at the core of medical decision-making.
Static GK Snapshot: Passive Euthanasia and Legal Guidelines
| Fact | Details |
| Landmark Case | Common Cause vs. Union of India (2018) |
| Article Involved | Article 21 – Right to Life and Personal Liberty |
| Passive Euthanasia | Withdrawal of life-support to allow natural death |
| Living Will / AMD | Advance directive documenting treatment preferences |
| Approval Requirement | Treating doctor, two medical boards, District Health Officer, JMFC |
| Karnataka’s Implementation Year | 2025 |
