For the last 13 years, the life of 32-year-old Harish Rana from Delhi has remained unchanged. He has been in a permanent vegetative state since a tragic accident in 2013 and survives entirely on life-sustaining medical support. After years of emotional trauma and financial hardship, his parents have once again approached the Supreme Court, seeking permission to withdraw life support and allow him a dignified death.
The Supreme Court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on whether Harish&rsquo;s life-sustaining treatment should continue or be withdrawn. If permitted, the case could become the first instance in India where a court formally allows passive euthanasia since it was legally recognised in 2018, potentially setting a significant legal precedent.
Harish was a civil engineering student at Chandigarh University when he suffered a devastating fall from the fourth floor of his paying guest accommodation on August 20, 2013. The incident left him with severe brain injuries, rendering him completely unresponsive. Medical assessments have consistently shown no improvement in his condition.
Since the accident, Harish has remained under treatment at AIIMS, with his parents dedicating their lives to his care. The prolonged medical treatment forced the family to sell their Delhi home and relocate to Ghaziabad. Despite having two other children, their focus has remained solely on Harish&rsquo;s care and survival.
The parents had earlier moved the Delhi High Court in 2024 seeking passive euthanasia, but the plea was rejected. Subsequent appeals were also dismissed, with courts noting that he was not entirely dependent on machines. In December 2025, the family returned to the Supreme Court, citing further deterioration in his condition. Court-appointed medical boards reportedly concluded that the possibility of recovery is nearly nonexistent. The final judgment is expected on January 15.

Parents seek dignified death for son in vegetative state for 13 years

SC to Rule on Euthanasia Plea of Delhi Man

Parents seek dignified death for son in vegetative state for 13 years

January 15, 2026 | 12:32 IST