Decriminalizing Suicide

SUICIDE in many parts of the world has been a criminal matter. The Union Government of India is now pushing to decriminalize ‘suicide’. Over one million people die by suicide every year. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that it is the 13th leading cause of death worldwide. In India alone, about one lakh die annually.

In India, attempted suicide is an offense punishable under Section 309 of the Indian Penal Code. Section 309 reads thus: Attempt to commit suicide. "Whoever attempts to commit suicide and does any act towards the commission of such offense, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year or with fine, or with both."

The reasons are varied - academic pressures,financial difficulties,failed relationships,mental disorder and many more.No one would want to end their lives,only if the person concerned gets the appropriate help and guidance in the worst of the times,discussing and sorting out the issue is the wise thing to go about it.Decriminalizing suicide is definitely a step in the right direction.