How do the concepts of autonomy and privacy underpin the debate on assisted dying? Discuss with reference to relevant Supreme Court judgments.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections
Topic: Mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections
Q4. How do the concepts of autonomy and privacy underpin the debate on assisted dying? Discuss with reference to relevant Supreme Court judgments. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question The question addresses the legal and ethical dimensions of assisted dying, focusing on the interplay of autonomy and privacy as upheld by the judiciary. Key Demand of the Question Explain how autonomy and privacy underpin the debate on assisted dying and analyze relevant Supreme Court judgments supporting these principles. Structure of the Answer Introduction Briefly introduce assisted dying and its connection to the fundamental rights of autonomy and privacy, emphasizing their relevance to dignity and liberty. Body Autonomy in assisted dying: Mention its role in individual decision-making regarding life and death. Privacy as a basis for personal choices: Highlight how privacy supports freedom over life decisions. Judicial support: Reference key Supreme Court judgments like Common Cause (2018) and Aruna Shanbaug (2011) to demonstrate judicial recognition of these rights. Balancing autonomy and state duty: Discuss safeguards to prevent misuse and the state’s responsibility to protect life. Conclusion Conclude by emphasizing the need for a balanced framework that respects individual rights while ensuring robust safeguards to prevent exploitation.
Why the question
The question addresses the legal and ethical dimensions of assisted dying, focusing on the interplay of autonomy and privacy as upheld by the judiciary.
Key Demand of the Question
Explain how autonomy and privacy underpin the debate on assisted dying and analyze relevant Supreme Court judgments supporting these principles.
Structure of the Answer
Introduction Briefly introduce assisted dying and its connection to the fundamental rights of autonomy and privacy, emphasizing their relevance to dignity and liberty.
• Autonomy in assisted dying: Mention its role in individual decision-making regarding life and death.
• Privacy as a basis for personal choices: Highlight how privacy supports freedom over life decisions.
• Judicial support: Reference key Supreme Court judgments like Common Cause (2018) and Aruna Shanbaug (2011) to demonstrate judicial recognition of these rights.
• Balancing autonomy and state duty: Discuss safeguards to prevent misuse and the state’s responsibility to protect life.
Conclusion Conclude by emphasizing the need for a balanced framework that respects individual rights while ensuring robust safeguards to prevent exploitation.