Santhara (Sallekhana) in Jainism: Meaning and Legal Debate
Why in the news
The reported death of a three-year-old girl in Indore, allegedly linked to Santhara by a Jain monk, reopened legal and ethical questions.
Key facts
- Santhara (Sallekhana): gradual voluntary fasting until death, believed to cleanse the soul and lead to moksha.
- Open to monks and laypersons facing terminal illness, old age or famine, under spiritual guidance.
| Jain concept | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Ahimsa | Non-violence |
| Satya | Truthfulness |
| Asteya | Non-stealing |
| Brahmacharya | Chastity or restraint |
| Aparigraha | Non-possessiveness |
| Triratna | Right Faith, Knowledge, Conduct |
Legal position
- 2015, Rajasthan High Court: suicide under IPC Section 306.
- August 2015, Supreme Court: stayed that ruling; linked to religious freedom under Article 25.
Significance and concerns
- Seen as a dignified, non-violent end shedding karmic bonds; Bhadrabahu and Chandragupta Maurya practised it at Shravanabelagola.
- Questions: minors’ consent, mentors’ responsibility, faith versus child protection.
Exam angle
- Other name: Sallekhana; constitutional provision: Article 25.