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Criminalizing suicide attempts: can it be a deterrent?
1Department of Psychiatry, Kasturba Medical College Hospital, Manipal-576 010, Udupi, India. drlathaks@yahoo.com
Medicine, Science, and the Law
|December 3, 2004
Summary
Criminalizing suicide attempts remains a global concern, particularly in India where it is punishable. This review examines the multifaceted issues and consequences of making suicide a crime.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Mental Health Law
- Criminology
Background:
- Suicidal behaviour is a significant global public and mental health issue.
- Many developed nations have decriminalized attempted suicide.
- India retains legal provisions punishing attempted suicide under the Indian Penal Code (1833).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the issues surrounding the criminalization of suicide in India.
- To analyze the implications of penalizing attempted suicide.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of legal and public health perspectives.
- Analysis of the Indian Penal Code concerning suicide.
- Discussion of ethical and societal impacts.
Main Results:
- The criminalization of suicide in India contrasts with international trends.
- Legal provisions may deter help-seeking behaviour and exacerbate mental health issues.
- Implications include potential for human rights violations and public health challenges.
Conclusions:
- Decriminalizing suicide is crucial for public health and mental well-being in India.
- Revisiting the Indian Penal Code is essential to align with global standards and protect vulnerable individuals.
- Addressing the root causes of suicidal behaviour requires a supportive, rather than punitive, approach.