Wednesday 10 September 2014

Decriminalization of "Attempt to Suicide"

Today is World Suicide Prevention Day.

Attempt to Suicide is a punishable offence in India under section 309.


The Law Commission, in its 210th report (2008) on "Attempt to Suicide", recommended that this law should be revoked



It has clearly mentioned that -

"  Section 309 is a stumbling block in prevention of suicides and improving the access of medical care to those who have attempted suicide. It is unreasonable to inflict punishment upon a person who on account of family discord, destitution, loss of a dear relation or other cause of a like nature overcomes the instinct of self-preservation and decides to take his own life. 

In such a case, the unfortunate person deserves sympathy, counselling and appropriate treatment, and certainly not the prison.  "

It is yet to be seen when this recommendation of Law commission will actually be incorporated in the law." 


Till then, attempt to suicide is a crime...

So, for the organizations and people working towards the suicide prevention, the responsibility is more.. 

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