New Delhi – May 8, 2025
The ancient Jain ritual of Santhara, or voluntary fasting to death, has once again sparked a heated debate in India, drawing attention to the intersection of religious freedom and the law. Santhara is a practice where devout Jains choose to stop eating and drinking in the final stages of their life, often as a way to attain spiritual liberation and renounce worldly attachments. Followers of Jainism view Santhara as a deeply spiritual act that helps individuals purify their soul.
However, the practice has come under scrutiny in recent years, with critics questioning whether it is, in fact, a form of suicide, which is illegal under Indian law. In 2015, the Rajasthan High Court ruled that Santhara could be considered suicide, a decision that caused significant controversy within the Jain community, who argued that it was a religious duty rather than a criminal act.
In response, the Supreme Court of India is now reviewing the legality of Santhara, as petitions have been filed challenging the Rajasthan High Court’s ruling. Supporters of Santhara argue that it is a voluntary act tied to their religious beliefs and should therefore fall under the umbrella of religious freedom. They believe that denying the practice would violate their constitutional right to practice and propagate their religion freely.
On the other hand, opponents argue that Santhara could be seen as a dangerous precedent that might encourage others to take similar drastic steps, particularly vulnerable individuals, and thus pose a threat to public safety and mental health. They stress the importance of distinguishing religious practices from actions that could potentially harm life.
The Indian government faces a delicate balance between upholding the sanctity of religious practices and ensuring that laws are not violated in ways that endanger life. Legal experts suggest that a nuanced approach is necessary, one that respects religious traditions while safeguarding individual well-being.
As the case progresses, the issue has sparked broader discussions about religious freedom in India, with various groups advocating for their right to follow ancient traditions without interference from the state. With the case set to be heard in the Supreme Court, the outcome could set a significant precedent for the future of religious practices and the extent of the legal protection they receive.
