Tragic Case Prompts India to Adopt a Law Permitting ‘Passive’ Euthanasia

January 5, 2015

(Washington Post) – Now, a law has taken effect that may help Indians facing a similar tragedy. But it still may not alter Shanbaug’s condition. Last month, India adopted a landmark Supreme Court decision to allow “passive euthanasia” for patients who are in a permanent vegetative state or are declared brain-dead. The procedure involves withdrawing medical treatment and allowing death to occur — as opposed to “active euthanasia,” in which a life is ended through a lethal dose of drugs or other means.