Our  discussion  on 'assisted death' was timely as various other bodies are  currently talking about the subject. It is a very important issue and cannot be kept  concealed 'under the carpet'. <p>

Whilst it is correct for the 'final decision' to be made by the individual or any other person  'with given legal authority'( thru living will etc) , that 'choice' must be a well-informed one.  In other words,  it should only be undertaken after all factors have been taken in consideration.  And  in a situation like this , the  'medical' status  in details  must be looked at.  The  attending  doctor (s)  therefore will remain crucially  important and their observations relevant. <p>

Some eminent doctors are professing total 'neutrality'  with the entire 'burden' of decision on 'lay' care-givers or relatives.  They use the terminology 'society' ; in such a scenario  what does society mean?  Such 'individuial'  issues warrant  specific and 'individual' assessment and decision-making. Although such procedures and actions must be 'legal' eg approved by the Parliament,   no  'universal'  rule can be applied to all  cases.  <p>

Professionals must remain involved ; they may not  'direct' but they must 'advise'  and  provide 'advocacy' in such  complex situations.

ARUP BANERJEE