Open Access Research Article

EUTHANASIA IN INDIA - TOWARDS A UNIFORM NATIONAL END-OF-LIFE DECISION PROTOCOL [UNEDP]

Author(s):
MR. SHEJAL TAYDE MS. AYUSHI SAMRIYA
Journal IJLRA
ISSN 2582-6433
Access Open Access
Volume 3
Issue 6
DOI https://www.doi-ds.org/doilink/09.2026-12994858/EUTHANASIA IN INDIA - TOWARDS A UNIFORM NATIONAL E
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Abstract

Abstract:—
Euthanasia– the practice of ending-of a life intentionally to relieve suffering is still a controversial issue in India. The debate surrounding Passive Euthanasia one of the most complex intersections of constitutional law, medical ethics, individual autonomy, and human dignity. In India, the legal recognition of passive euthanasia has developed primarily through judicial interpretation rather than legislative action. The concept of human dignity forms the foundation of Constitutional democracy and human rights jurisprudence. Article 21 of the Indian constitution guarantees every individual the right to life and personal liberty. Initially Article 21 was understood in a limited manner, focusing mainly on protection against unlawful deprivation of life.
Through various landmark judgments of Hon'ble Supreme Court of India gradually expanded the scope of Article 21 and stated that the right to life not only includes survival but also the right to live with human dignity. Hon'ble Courts often emphasized that the dignity is an essential part of human existence and must be protected at every stage of life
The study argues that judicial recognition alone is insufficient to ensure effective protection of the Right to Die with Dignity. It recommends the enactment of comprehensive legislation and proposes the establishment of a Uniform National End-of-Life Decision Protocol[UNEDP] to provide standardized procedures, strengthen patient autonomy, safeguard medical practitioners, and ensure accountability, transparency, and consistency in end-of-life decision-making across India.
This study adopts a doctrinal and analytical research methodology based on constitutional provisions, judicial decisions, legal literature, policy reports, and comparative legal analysis. It critically examines the evolution of passive euthanasia jurisprudence in India, evaluates the constitutional principles underlying end-of-life decision-making, and identifies persistent challenges arising from the absence of comprehensive legislation. The research highlights concerns relating to inconsistent implementation, limited public awareness of living wills, uncertainty among medical professionals, and the lack of institutional mechanisms governing end-of-life decisions. A comparative examination of legal frameworks in the United Kingdom,
Canada, and the Netherlands demonstrate the advantages of statutory regulation supported by ethical oversight and procedural safeguards.

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Author Details

Authors: MR. SHEJAL TAYDE & MS. AYUSHI SAMRIYA
Registration ID: 1013140 | Published Paper ID: IJLRA13140 & IJLRA13141
Year: Sep-2026 | Volume: 3 | Issue: 6
Approved ISSN: 2582-6433 | Country: Delhi, India
Page No.: 608-622

Article Information

EUTHANASIA IN INDIA - TOWARDS A UNIFORM NATIONAL END-OF-LIFE DECISION PROTOCOL [UNEDP]

Authors: MR. SHEJAL TAYDE, MS. AYUSHI SAMRIYA

  • Journal IJLRA
  • ISSN 2582-6433
  • Volume 3
  • Issue 6
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International Journal for Legal Research and Analysis

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

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