Written By: Nirmalya Dutta | Updated : July 21, 2014 9:16 AM IST
Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said on Sunday that there should be no rush to decide on euthanasia and efforts should be made for a national consensus.
'A consensus should be developed on whether to allow killing of terminally-ill people with no chances of revival. It is a complex issue. There should not be any hurry to decide on this highly emotive subject,' the minister said, responding to a query on the July 16 Supreme Court decision to adjudicate legality of euthanasia.
'There should be a healthy countrywide discussion on the topic involving medical professionals and society at large with an open mind. Since people's emotions are deeply associated with it, the same must be given prime importance,' said Vardhan. When asked about his personal views, the minister said: 'Personal opinion has no relevance. There can't be an instant yes or no. Before making any comment we have to examine whether society is prepared for such a move, all its pros and cons and the rights of terminally-ill people. Our social and cultural issues should also be kept in mind.'
What is euthanasia?
Euthanasia, the practise of voluntarily ending one's life remains a burning issue around the globe. Many arguments have been given for and against euthanasia. The school of thought, which is pro-euthanasia takes the stand that it remains a fundamental human right to end one's life especially when someone or their loved one is chronically ill and suffering. Anti-groups feel that allowing euthanasia could lead to a slippery slope resulting in non-voluntary and even involuntary deaths and suicides. There are various assisted dying organisations around the world which has actually given rise to a phenomenon called 'suicide tourism' where patients visit countries that have legalized euthanasia for assisted suicide. One such organization that came under the media scanner recently was Dignitas, a Swiss-assisted dying group where foreigners came to for assisted suicide.
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