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Bengaluru, February 2, 2025 – In a historic move, Karnataka has become the first state in India to implement the Supreme Court’s directive regarding a patient’s right to die with dignity. The state’s Health Minister, Dinesh Gundu Rao, made the announcement through a social media post, unveiling the introduction of the Advance Medical Directive (AMD), also known as a living will.
This progressive step will empower patients to document their future medical treatment preferences, particularly for those suffering from terminal illnesses or in a persistent vegetative state. With the introduction of the AMD, individuals can now ensure that life-sustaining measures, such as ventilators or feeding tubes, are not used against their wishes when recovery is no longer possible.
Minister Rao described this initiative as a symbol of Karnataka’s commitment to liberal values, prioritizing the dignity and autonomy of individuals at the end of life. By implementing this directive, the state is poised to provide much-needed relief to families faced with difficult decisions, allowing for closure and a dignified farewell to their loved ones.
“This decision is a major step toward ensuring equity and justice, aligning Karnataka with progressive reforms that honor human rights and personal autonomy,” Rao stated.
The implementation of the Advance Medical Directive in Karnataka is expected to serve as a model for other states, reinforcing the importance of patient choice in healthcare, particularly in situations where a person’s quality of life has irreversibly diminished.
Disclaimer: This article reflects the announcement made by Karnataka’s Health Minister and the state’s new healthcare policy. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. For further clarification, individuals should consult healthcare professionals or legal experts regarding their rights and the implementation of the Advance Medical Directive.
