Question

The Supreme Court has legalised living wills and passive euthanasia subject to certain conditions in the case of:

• A. Aruna Ramachandra Shanbaug Vs Union of India (2011)
• B. Common Cause Vs Union of India, (2018) 5 SCC 1
• C. Gian Kaur Vs State of Punjab (1996)
• D. D Chenna Jagadeeswar Vs State of A.P. (1988)

Hint:

The Supreme Court's judgment in Common Cause Vs Union of India (2018) allowed passive euthanasia with specific safeguards, ensuring the right to die with dignity.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the case.
In the case of Common Cause Vs Union of India (2018), the Supreme Court legalised living wills and passive euthanasia under certain conditions, allowing patients to choose the withdrawal of life support in certain situations. This was a landmark decision for patient autonomy and end-of-life care in India.
Step 2: Explanation of the options.
- (a) Aruna Ramachandra Shanbaug Vs Union of India (2011): While this case dealt with passive euthanasia, it was not about living wills, which were legalised in 2018.
- (b) Common Cause Vs Union of India (2018): This is the correct case that legalised living wills and passive euthanasia.
- (c) Gian Kaur Vs State of Punjab (1996): This case dealt with the issue of euthanasia, but did not address living wills.
- (d) D Chenna Jagadeeswar Vs State of A.P. (1988): This case does not relate to euthanasia or living wills.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the correct answer is (b) Common Cause Vs Union of India, (2018) 5 SCC 1.