Abstract

Survival is undeniably valuable but some time and in certain condition life becomes painful and unbearable. Euthanasia is nothing else but a permit or license to the medical professional for ending the life of a person in question. With the march of law, the concept of ‘individual autonomy’ has gained much significance and recognized human dignity as an essential aspect across various jurisdictions. The present study presents varied forms of euthanasia and for whom it is granted. The study has made an attempt to explore the arguments in favour and against euthanasia and the position of life in various religions is also explored. The present study analyses the case of some countries like Netherland, Canada, Columbia, Belgium, Luxemburg and the state of Oregon in USA which have enacted legislations to euthanasia. India also joined these countries which have already legalized mercy killing in some form or other, so far India is concerned ‘Passive Euthanasia’ is legalized by Supreme Court’s two judge bench on 7th March 2011. The researcher has done a non-doctrinal study. Finally, an attempt was made to see the possibilities by which euthanasia can be avoided to a large extent while taking into consideration the ethical code of humanity.

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