The Assisted Dying Law in Britain

Source: The post the Assisted Dying Law in Britain has been created, based on the article “The long and complex road to assisted dying” published in “The Hindu” on 12^th December 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper II: Governance – Issues relating to health, human rights, and the ethical governance of public policies.

Context: The article discusses the introduction and debates surrounding the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2024-25, also known as the Assisted Dying Law, in the United Kingdom. The Assisted Dying Law in Britain, It sheds light on the broader ethical, legal, and philosophical questions tied to the right to die, framed by recent developments in Britain and comparisons to global practices.

What is the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill 2024-25?

1. The Bill, also known as the Assisted Dying Law, allows terminally ill adults in England and Wales with less than six months to live to seek assistance in ending their lives. The process requires approval from two doctors and a High Court judge.
2. The Bill aims to address such situations by allowing a dignified choice for terminally ill individuals.
3. The Bill has tight controls, including independent medical assessments, reflection periods, and judicial oversight, to ensure the process is not abused.

Why is assisted dying such a complex issue?

The debate revolves around fundamental ethical, legal, and societal questions. It pits the right to personal autonomy and dignity against concerns about potential abuse and societal values around the sanctity of life.

What are the primary arguments against assisted dying?

1. Slippery Slope Argument: Critics argue that once allowed, the scope of assisted dying could expand, leading to abuse, particularly against vulnerable groups like the elderly and disabled.
2. Concerns from Canada: Canada’s law, initially limited to foreseeable death, has expanded to include those with grievous medical conditions, diluting its original boundaries.
3. Philosophical and Religious Objections: Critics see the law as a threat to the sanctity of life and claim it is disguised as compassion but undermines the inviolability of life.

How do proponents respond to the criticism?

1. Carefully Drafted Legislation: The Bill only permits assisted dying for competent adults with terminal illnesses, requiring assessments by two doctors, a 14-day reflection period, and High Court approval.
2. Respect for Autonomy: Proponents argue the law upholds personal liberty, allowing individuals to make decisions about their own lives and alleviate unbearable suffering.
3. Ethical Justification: Supporters contend that preventing terminally ill patients from seeking relief violates their dignity and autonomy.

What universal lessons can be drawn from Britain’s debate?

1. The discussions underscore the importance of balancing ethical concerns with personal dignity.
2. The debates highlight the need for clear laws to prevent abuse while respecting individual autonomy and freedom.
3. Assisted dying laws must balance personal freedom with societal ethics.

What is India’s position on assisted dying?

1. India recognizes a limited right to die, allowing passive euthanasia and advance medical directives per the Supreme Court’s Common Cause vs. Union of India (2018) judgment.
2. This right is grounded in liberty, privacy, and dignity but does not yet extend to active assisted dying.

Why is the right to assisted dying important?

1. The ability to choose to end unbearable suffering respects human dignity and autonomy, core principles of a meaningful life.
2. While laws must include safeguards, they cannot ignore the fundamental right of individuals to decide on matters of life and death.