Mumbai, March 16: In a significant development, the Supreme Court has granted permission for passive euthanasia to Harish Rana, who has been in a coma for the past 13 years. Doctors at AIIMS Delhi are set to hold a crucial meeting today to discuss the phased removal of his life-support systems.
Harish Rana’s life-support devices were cleaned by doctors at AIIMS on Sunday. The committee formed by the AIIMS administration will deliberate on the process of removing these devices, including tubes inserted in his throat and abdomen for nutrition. Although discussions have circulated about the removal of these tubes, AIIMS has not issued any official statement regarding the matter.
Asmita Patil, the executive spokesperson for AIIMS, confirmed that the institution is adhering to the Supreme Court’s order. Harish Rana fell into a coma following a severe injury 13 years ago. Initially, a tracheostomy tube was inserted in his throat, along with another tube in his abdomen for nutritional support, and a catheter was also placed. The Supreme Court approved passive euthanasia for Harish on March 11, allowing for the gradual removal of his life-support systems.
Following the Supreme Court’s directive, AIIMS has formed a committee of eight to nine doctors, including specialists from ENT, medicine, anaesthesia, and palliative care. Harish was transported to AIIMS Delhi on March 14, where he is currently admitted in the palliative care ward of the Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital (IRCH). A senior doctor at AIIMS stated that the tubes have been cleaned, and the committee is overseeing his palliative care to ensure a painless process for passive euthanasia. The meeting today will determine the method for the gradual removal of the tube used for his nutrition.
Harish Rana, the eldest son of Ashok Rana, was pursuing a B.Tech degree at a college in Chandigarh when he suffered a serious head injury after falling from the fourth floor on August 20, 2013. His treatment continued from Chandigarh to AIIMS Delhi, but there has been no improvement in his condition. Harish was admitted to a district hospital in Sector 39 last May.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
