In Mumbai, 75 individuals have applied for euthanasia following the country’s first court-approved case, awaiting a response from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) due to unclear directives. These applicants seek euthanasia in cases of severe illness or irreversible comatose conditions, supported by “living wills” submitted to authorities.
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde clarified that while the BMC accepts and stores these requests, they lack the authority to act upon them, emphasizing that families are responsible for execution. The BMC, in compliance with a Supreme Court ruling permitting passive euthanasia, has designated medical officers in all wards to oversee living wills.
With 75 euthanasia applications on hand, the BMC is exploring digital solutions like an online portal or app to streamline the submission process. The surge in requests follows the passing of Harish Rana, the first Indian to undergo court-sanctioned passive euthanasia, after a tragic accident in 2013 left him in a coma for years.
Rana’s case has spurred a wave of euthanasia appeals, underscoring the necessity for precise legal and administrative frameworks. The BMC continues to securely retain these applications, awaiting further guidance on managing and implementing living wills within legal boundaries.
