Common Cause (A Regd. Society) vs Union Of India

The Supreme Court ruled that the 'right to die with dignity' falls within the ambit of 'right to live with dignity' as guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. The Court emphasized the necessity for a legal framework to allow individuals to execute 'Living Wills' to express their wishes regarding medical treatment in terminal conditions. The Court directed the Union of India to formulate guidelines and establish an Expert Committee to address the execution of Living Wills, thereby recognizing the autonomy of individuals in end-of-life decisions.