India's first passive euthanasia case ends as Harish Rana dies at 31

India's first passive euthanasia case ends as Harish Rana dies at 31

Sylvia Jordan
Sylvia Jordan
2 Min.
Poster with a child's face in the center, surrounded by bold black text reading "Every day lives are saved by blood donors."

India's first passive euthanasia case ends as Harish Rana dies at 31

Harish Rana, the first person in India to be granted permission for passive euthanasia, passed away on March 24, 2026, at the age of 31. His death followed years in a coma after a tragic fall from a fourth-floor balcony in 2013. A prayer ritual, known as a bhog, will be organised by the Brahma Kumaris in the coming days to honour his memory. Rana had been in a coma since his accident in 2013. On March 14, 2026, he was transferred to AIIMS in Delhi under a Supreme Court order. There, his nutritional support was gradually reduced as part of the passive euthanasia process.

His final rites took place on Wednesday morning at Green Park cremation ground in South Delhi. Parents Nirmala Devi and Ashok Rana were present to bid their son a last farewell. The family had earlier agreed to donate five of his organs, a decision confirmed by Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajai Rai. Rana's case marked a legal milestone as the first approved instance of passive euthanasia in India. His death comes after years of medical and ethical discussions surrounding his condition.

The donation of Rana's organs will proceed as planned. His cremation has already taken place, with family members and supporters paying their respects. The upcoming bhog ceremony will serve as a final tribute to his life.

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