The Perceptible Future of Euthanasia in India through the Landscape of Kantian Theory

Abstract

The Right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India, 1950 is a peculiar feature and the judiciary of the world’s largest democracy has repeatedly interpreted it to widen its scope. However, the question of right to die as an inherent part of the right to life in India remains under debate. Euthanasia and particularly Active Euthanasia has, further, been a debatable point in India. This article uses a descriptive method to show the need for Active Euthanasia in India. The data has been collected and analysed through documentation, reports, and judicial pronouncements. In the light of Articles 14, 19 and 21 of The Constitution of India, 1950, the need for Active Euthanasia in the present Indian society has been depicted. The manuscript is an analysis of the past, present, and future of Euthanasia in India. It further uses the landscape of Kantian Theory to determine the social, ethical or moral aspect of Euthanasia while keeping the modern developments and requirements in India in mind. Additionally, the present position of Euthanasia in Netherlands and Belgium is also discussed in brief as a reference point. Suggestions for implementation of the procedure for Active Euthanasia have also been provided.