Topic Details (Notes format)

Euthanasia and Constitutional Debates

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

Focuses on the “right to die with dignity” as an extension of Article 21 (right to life). The Supreme Court’s Aruna Shanbaug (2011) and Common Cause (2018) judgments permitted passive euthanasia under strict guidelines, acknowledging living wills. Critics fear misuse or moral implications, while proponents cite bodily autonomy and relief from incurable suffering. India’s legal stance differentiates active euthanasia (illegal) from passive euthanasia (withdrawal of life support). Balancing individual autonomy, familial pressures, and medical ethics underscores a sensitive domain requiring robust safeguards. This debate spotlights evolving interpretations of personal liberty under India’s progressive jurisprudence.

Practice Questions

Who has the authority to dissolve the Lok Sabha?

सूचना का अधिकार किस अधिनियम के अंतर्गत आता है?

विधेयक प्रस्तुत करने का अधिकार संसद के किस सदन के सदस्यों को है?

संविधान सभा के सदस्यों का चुनाव किस प्रकार से हुआ था?

Who among the following is known as the "Father of the Nation" in India?

विधायिका के प्रमुख का चुनाव किस प्रक्रिया से होता है?

Which of the following is a feature of the Indian Parliamentary System?

What is the maximum strength of the Legislative Assembly of a state?

Which amendment of the Indian Constitution gave the Right to Education a fundamental right?

राज्य के अधिकारों की सीमा किसके द्वारा निर्धारित की जाती है?