Persistent Vegetative State (PVS) and Medical-Ethical Framework
A Persistent Vegetative State is a condition of profound unconsciousness in which a patient lacks any awareness of self or environment, retains basic brainstem functions (such as breathing), but has no meaningful cortical activity. It is distinguished from brain death, where all brain activity including brainstem function has ceased.
- In India, the Transplantation of Human Organs Act, 1994, defines "brain death" (irreversible cessation of all brain functions) as a separate legal and medical category. PVS patients are not brain dead — they breathe (sometimes with mechanical assistance) and may open their eyes reflexively.
- The distinction matters legally: brain death allows organ donation; PVS requires a separate judicial process for passive euthanasia.
- In Harish Rana's case, he had 100% quadriplegia and was sustained entirely by CAN through PEG tubes, with medical boards finding zero prospect of neurological recovery after 13 years.
- Palliative care — the framework under which AIIMS will withdraw treatment — focuses on comfort and dignity rather than cure, managing pain and distress during the dying process.
● Tracked since March 11, 2026 · last seen March 11, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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