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India's Supreme Court Approves Passive Euthanasia for Patient

3/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Supreme Court of India has authorized passive euthanasia for Harish Rana, a 32-year-old patient in a persistent vegetative state since a 2013 head injury.
The ruling allows withdrawal of life support, including nutrition, and marks India's first court-approved passive euthanasia.
Rana's parents supported the decision to protect their son's dignity, and the withdrawal will be carried out at AIIMS Palliative Care Centre.

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Story summary

The Supreme Court of India has authorized passive euthanasia for Harish Rana, a 32-year-old patient in a persistent vegetative state since a 2013 head injury.
The ruling allows withdrawal of life support, including nutrition, and marks India's first court-approved passive euthanasia.
Rana's parents supported the decision to protect their son's dignity, and the withdrawal will be carried out at AIIMS Palliative Care Centre.