NEW DELHI: Delhi HC Thursday sought Centre’s explanation for excluding same-sex couples from the right to make medical decisions for each other during treatment.
Justice Sachin Datta observed there appeared to be no reason why this right should “not be available” to same-sex or unmarried couples under Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002. It directed Centre and National Medical Commission to respond within four weeks.
The 2002 regulations state that consent for medical procedures must be obtained from “husband or wife, parent or guardian in the case of a minor, or the patient himself.”
HC was hearing a plea by Arshiya Takkar seeking legal recognition for queer couples to make medical decisions for partners during emergencies. The plea argued that lack of guidelines leaves queer partners powerless in critical situations and amounts to bias.
Justice Datta also questioned how the rules applied to orphans or people living alone and asked Centre to clarify.
Justice Sachin Datta observed there appeared to be no reason why this right should “not be available” to same-sex or unmarried couples under Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002. It directed Centre and National Medical Commission to respond within four weeks.
The 2002 regulations state that consent for medical procedures must be obtained from “husband or wife, parent or guardian in the case of a minor, or the patient himself.”
HC was hearing a plea by Arshiya Takkar seeking legal recognition for queer couples to make medical decisions for partners during emergencies. The plea argued that lack of guidelines leaves queer partners powerless in critical situations and amounts to bias.
Justice Datta also questioned how the rules applied to orphans or people living alone and asked Centre to clarify.
You may also like
Maharashtra Mulls Law To Mandate Rent Payments For Tenants In Stalled Redevelopment Projects
Bombay HC Rejects Indian Couple's Plea To Adopt US-Born Nephew, Says Juvenile Justice Act Doesn't Apply
Bihar Politics: Lalan Singh's Mutton Feast During Saawan Sparks Political Row
Calcutta HC acquits three on death row for 2014 murder
Mumbai News: Woman Booked For Stealing Tablets And Laptop From Empower Library In Govandi, FIR Registered
