Aruna Shanbaug vs Union of India [Aruna Shanbaug Case Summary]
🧑⚖️ Aruna Shanbaug v. Union of India
(2011) 4 SCC 454 | Supreme Court of India
⚖️ Background:
Aruna Shanbaug, a nurse at King Edward Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, was brutally assaulted and strangled in 1973, leaving her in a vegetative state for decades.
She was kept alive through artificial feeding and care but had no hope of recovery.
Pinki Virani, a journalist, filed a petition seeking permission for euthanasia (withdrawal of life support) to end Aruna’s suffering.
The hospital staff opposed the petition, wanting to continue care.
🔍 Issues:
Whether the withdrawal of life support (passive euthanasia) is permissible under Indian law.
Does the right to die fall within the ambit of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution?
Can courts authorize euthanasia in certain situations?
🧑⚖️ Supreme Court Judgment:
Key Points:
Right to Life includes Right to Die:
The Court acknowledged that the right to life under Article 21 includes the right to die with dignity.
However, this right is subject to strict guidelines and safeguards.
Passive Euthanasia Permissible:
The Court allowed passive euthanasia (withdrawal of life support or treatment) under strict judicial supervision.
Active euthanasia (directly causing death) remains illegal.
Guidelines laid down:
Withdrawal of life support requires permission from the High Court.
The petition must be supported by the opinions of the medical board and hospital.
The decision must be made in the best interest of the patient.
Rejection of mercy killing petition in Aruna’s case:
The Court refused to allow euthanasia for Aruna Shanbaug because the hospital staff had been caring for her and opposed it.
The Court commended the staff for their care and upheld the sanctity of life.
📝 Significance:
First Supreme Court judgment to legalize passive euthanasia in India.
Balances ethical, legal, and humanitarian concerns around end-of-life decisions.
Provides a legal framework and safeguards for euthanasia cases.
Opens debate on right to die and medical ethics in India.
📌 Summary Table:
| Aspect | Court’s Position |
|---|---|
| Right to Life (Art 21) | Includes right to die with dignity |
| Active Euthanasia | Not allowed |
| Passive Euthanasia | Allowed under strict judicial supervision |
| Procedure | Permission from High Court, medical board opinion |
| Aruna Shanbaug's Case | Petition denied; continued care upheld |
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