UK House of Commons approves bill to legalise assisted dying
London: The UK Parliament's House of Commons has voted in favour of legalising assisted dying, marking a significant step in the nation’s approach to end-of-life care. The bill, introduced by Kim Leadbeater, was passed with 330 votes to 275 following an extensive debate.
The proposed law allows terminally ill individuals with less than six months to live to opt for assisted dying, provided they are capable of making the decision independently. The process requires approval from two doctors and a High Court judge to ensure strict safeguards.
While the House of Lords and parliamentary committees must still review the legislation, the vote is seen as a critical milestone in the years-long campaign for assisted dying. If enacted, the UK will join countries like Canada, New Zealand, Spain, and several US states that have already legalised the practice.
The bill has sparked widespread debate, dividing lawmakers and the public. Proponents argue it ensures dignity for terminally ill patients, alleviating suffering and easing the burden on palliative care services. Esther Rantzen, a BBC presenter battling advanced lung cancer, urged Parliament to act, emphasising that the current law leaves patients with limited choices.
However, opponents have raised concerns about the adequacy of safeguards and potential pressure on patients to avoid being a burden to their families. Labour MP Rachael Maskell criticised the timing, citing the underfunded state of the National Health Service (NHS) and the need to prioritise improvements in palliative care.
The legislation aligns with the "Oregon model," which limits assisted dying to terminal illnesses, contrasting with broader laws in Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Canada. Assisted death remains a criminal offence in England and Wales, with penalties of up to 14 years imprisonment.
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Himachal: Three killed, two injured as speeding car dashes against parked truck
Mandi (HP) (PTI): Three people were killed and two others sustained grievous injuries after a speeding car dashed against a stationary truck at Dadour near Nerchowk in Mandi district on Monday late at night, police said on Tuesday.
There were five people in the car when the tragedy struck. Three were declared dead in the hospital while two have been referred to AIIMS Bilaspur.
The deceased were identified as Anil Kumar (28), Rohit Kumar (26) and Subash Kumar (23), all residents of Mandi district, while the injured are Harish and Pankaj.
A case has been registered under relevant sections and investigations are underway, said Superintendent of Police (SP) Mandi Vinod Kumar.
He added that the bodies have been handed over to the family members of the deceased.
In a statement, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu expressed grief over the loss of three lives in a road accident. He directed the district administration to ensure best possible treatment for the injured and wished them a speedy recovery.
