Karnataka Implements Supreme Court’s ‘Right To Die With Dignity’ Order

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The Karnataka Health Department has enacted a significant order allowing terminally ill patients to withdraw life-sustaining treatment, following the Supreme Court’s “Right to Die” directive. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao noted this decision, alongside the introduction of Advance Medical Directives. The process includes necessary approvals from medical professionals and the patient’s next of kin to ensure ethical adherence.

Karnataka Implements Supreme Court’s ‘Right to Die with Dignity’ Order

Karnataka: In a historic step towards upholding patients’ rights, the Karnataka Health Department has issued an order to implement the Supreme Court’s directive on the “Right to Die” with dignity. This decision allows terminally ill patients with no hope of recovery or those in a persistent vegetative state to opt for the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment (WLST) when it no longer benefits them.

Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao shared the announcement on X (formerly Twitter), stating:

“My Karnataka Health Department, @DHFWKA (Department of Health and Family Welfare Services – Govt. of Karnataka), passes a historic order to implement the Supreme Court’s directive for a patient’s Right to Die with dignity. This will immensely benefit those who are terminally ill with no hope of recovery, or are in a persistent vegetative state, and where the patient no longer benefits from life-sustaining treatment.”

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He also emphasized the introduction of the Advance Medical Directive (AMD), also known as a “living will,” which allows patients to record their medical treatment preferences for the future.

“This important step will bring great relief and a dignified sense of closure to many families and individuals. Karnataka is a progressive state and we are always at the forefront in upholding liberal and equitable values for a more just society,”

he added.

Harish Gupta, Principal Secretary to the Health and Family Welfare Department, reiterated the Supreme Court’s stance on the right to die with dignity under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.

“Supreme Court of India has recognised that the right to life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution encompasses the right to die with dignity. To enable a dignified death, it has been held that life-sustaining treatment may be withheld or withdrawn (WLST) where the patient is terminally ill with no hope of recovery or is in a persistent vegetative state, and where the patient no longer benefits from life-sustaining treatment.”

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The Court has also laid down guidelines for WLST and the implementation of Advance Medical Directives (AMDs) to ensure ethical and legal clarity in such cases.

The Karnataka Health Department’s order specifies a detailed process for withdrawing life support, requiring approval from medical professionals and family members.

Approval from the Treating Doctor: The doctor overseeing the patient’s treatment must first assess the case.
Primary and Secondary Medical Boards:
- The hospital must establish two independent medical boards, each comprising three registered medical practitioners.
- The Secondary Medical Board must include a registered medical practitioner nominated by the District Health Officer.
Consent of Next of Kin: The final decision regarding WLST must be taken with the approval of the patient’s next of kin or the person named in the patient’s Advance Medical Directive (AMD).