Open Access Research Article

ETHICS, AUTONOMY AND END-OF-LIFE DECISIONS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF LIVING WILLS

Author(s):
AASTHA KOUSHAL DR ARCHANA SUKEY
Journal IJLRA
ISSN 2582-6433
Access Open Access
Volume 3
Issue 6
DOI https://www.doi-ds.org/doilink/09.2026-54368942/ETHICS, AUTONOMY AND END-OF-LIFE DECISIONS: A COMP
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Abstract

ABSTRACT
The growing recognition of patient autonomy and the right to die with dignity has brought the concept of living wills to the forefront of legal and ethical debates worldwide. In India, the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Common Cause v. Union of India (2018) legalized living wills, recognizing the right to refuse life-prolonging medical treatment as part of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. This study seeks to critically analyse the existing legal framework for living wills in India, identifying gaps and challenges in its implementation. Additionally, it offers a comparative analysis of legal frameworks in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia, to provide insights into international best practices.
The primary objectives of the study are to evaluate the effectiveness of India’s current legal stance on living wills, assess the ethical considerations surrounding end-of-life care, and suggest reforms that align with global standards. The study will adopt a doctrinal research methodology, relying on a detailed analysis of statutes, case law, and legal literature, complemented by a comparative law approach to draw parallels and distinctions between jurisdictions. This research will provide recommendations for improving the legal recognition and practical enforcement of living wills in India, ensuring patient autonomy and dignity in death.

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Author Details

Authors: AASTHA KOUSHAL & DR ARCHANA SUKEY
Registration ID: 1013106 | Published Paper ID: IJLRA13106 & IJLRA13107
Year: Sep-2026 | Volume: 3 | Issue: 6
Approved ISSN: 2582-6433 | Country: Delhi, India
Page No.: 153-172

Article Information

ETHICS, AUTONOMY AND END-OF-LIFE DECISIONS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF LIVING WILLS

Authors: AASTHA KOUSHAL, DR ARCHANA SUKEY

  • Journal IJLRA
  • ISSN 2582-6433
  • Volume 3
  • Issue 6
Citation Download Paper Full Details Search on Google Search on Google Scholar

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International Journal for Legal Research and Analysis

  • AbbreviationIJLRA
  • ISSN2582-6433
  • AccessOpen Access
  • LicenseCC 4.0

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