Two-Stage Medical Review Process
Before life support can be withdrawn, the patient’s condition will undergo a rigorous two-stage medical evaluation:
- Primary Medical Board: A team of three doctors will assess the patient’s condition.
- Secondary Medical Board: This board will include an additional government-appointed doctor along with three other medical professionals, who will review the findings of the primary board and submit a report to the court.
If the court approves the medical report, life support will be withdrawn under expert supervision, ensuring that the patient passes away peacefully. However, this process will only be initiated at the request of the patient’s family.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
The Supreme Court had earlier emphasized that terminally ill patients should be granted relief from prolonged suffering and upheld their right to die with dignity. Karnataka has now become one of the first states to act upon this directive, setting an example for other states in India.
Official Announcement
Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao made the announcement via a post on X (formerly Twitter). He stated that this decision would benefit patients suffering from incurable diseases, providing relief to both patients and their families.
"This is a significant step in ensuring human dignity and compassionate healthcare. It will bring much-needed relief to many suffering families," the minister emphasized.
The move is expected to spark discussions on the ethical, legal, and medical aspects of end-of-life care in India, paving the way for more states to consider similar measures.
