The Supreme Court has taken up a petition for Euthanasia (mercy killing) filed by the family of Harish Rana, who has been in a coma since 2013. This case has emerged as a significant challenge for both the medical world and the legal system.

Background: The Beginning of a Tragedy

In 2013, Harish Rana, then an engineering student in Chandigarh, suffered severe head injuries after accidentally falling from the fourth floor of a building. Since then, he has remained in a persistent vegetative state (coma). Despite receiving treatment at the country’s most prestigious hospitals, including AIIMS (Delhi), PGI Chandigarh, and Fortis, there has been no improvement in his condition.

The Family’s Grief and Struggle

Caring for Harish at home for over a decade has become an unbearable financial and mental burden for his family. Since doctors have stated there is little to no chance of recovery, his parents have moved the Supreme Court seeking a "dignified death" for him. The court had previously rejected similar petitions filed by the family in 2018 and 2023. Tripp Trapp High Chair Combo 2 - Includes Chair + Baby Set with Removable Harness for Children - All Age, Height Adjustable, Ergonomic, Premium Baby Wooden High Chair for Feeding and Sitting, Natural

Challenges Before the Supreme Court

A bench comprising Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice K.V. Viswanathan is presiding over the matter. Key developments in the court include:

Lawyers have been directed to study the report submitted by the second medical board of AIIMS regarding Harish’s current health status.The judges noted, "This is an extremely sad report. A young man cannot be kept in this state indefinitely; it is a great challenge for us." The court has summoned Harish Rana’s parents and siblings to appear in person for the final hearing on January 13.

The Legal Process of Euthanasia

In India, 'Passive Euthanasia' (the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment) is permitted under specific conditions. On January 13, the Supreme Court is likely to take a historic decision on whether or not to allow the withdrawal of Harish’s treatment, weighing the case on both legal and ethical grounds. Also Read: Marriage Against Father's Wishes: Excluding Daughter from Property Will is Legal - Supreme Court

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Engineering Student in Coma for 13 Years: Supreme Court Verdict on Euthanasia on January 13

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