The emerging debate on euthanasia

Euthanasia is hailed as mercy killing or assisted suicide. The act of euthanasia propagates that when a person is suffering from an incurable disease, he is assisted to death. Such act lingers in the belief that the patient, no more, can bear the pain.

The proponents of euthanasia linger on the side that it is better for a patient to embrace death than to endure lifelong pain. Whereas, the opponents adhere to the idea that it is against an individual’s moral system

The act of euthanasia can be classified into three categories. First, “voluntary euthanasia” is conducted with the consent of the patient. Second, “involuntary euthanasia” is conducted without the consent of the patient, as the third person observes the patient’s unbearable pain. Third, “non-voluntary euthanasia” implies in the case of children whose senses are not well aware to take proper decisions. Moreover, the ingredients of such classification are “active” and “passive” euthanasia. The former depicts the materialisation of some lethal substances, whereas, the latter pertains to withholding the mandatory treatment, fighting against the disease.

The proponents of euthanasia linger on the side that it is better for a patient to embrace death than to endure lifelong pain. Whereas, the opponents adhere to the idea that it is against an individual’s moral system. Furthermore, the latter argues that not all the incurable diseases are painful.

Yes, the act of euthanasia has gotten heed in many of the countries across the globe. And considering it the need of the hour, these countries have permitted the law favouring voluntary euthanasia.

What is the prevailing situation in our country, Pakistan? We portray ourselves as humans, having the most living conscience on humanitarian grounds. Take the rural areas of Pakistan into consideration for a while; many of the poor get trapped in the quagmire of incurable diseases. For them to undergo the act of euthanasia becomes a dilemma. If they opt for mercy killing, they will be raised the question of their morals and conscience. Whereas, if they keep on spending over the treatment of the patient, knowing that the disease is incurable, they will ultimately invite nothing but destitution and penury. Hence, the existence and livelihood of us poor Pakistanis seems to shift between the devil and the deep sea.

What needs dire attention is the role of our government in addressing such an issue. The common masses are the assets of our country, not a liability. Our government needs to mull over the issue of euthanasia; it either ought to legalise euthanasia in particular situations, or facilitate Pakistanis with lifelong medical care in special cases.

The writer holds a bachelors in Business Administration from the Institute of Business Management (IoBM). He can be reached at kamalmotwani27@gmail.com