Hindustan Times ·
Same-sex partners, unmarried couples can make medical decisions: NMC to Delhi HC
NMC filed an affidavit in response to a petition for guidelines allowing same-sex partners to give consent in emergencies
Same-sex partners and unmarried couples can make medical decisions on their partner’s behalf during emergencies, provided they have been nominated or authorised to do so in the event of incapacity, the National Medical Commission (NMC) said in an affidavit in the Delhi high court on Wednesday.
The affidavit was filed in response to a petition seeking directions to the government to frame guidelines allowing same-sex partners to give consent in medical situations and emergencies. Arshiya Takkar, the petitioner, moved the court against regulation 7.16 of the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002. The regulation mandates consent for medical procedures and treatment from a husband or wife, parent, or guardian in the case of a minor or the patient.
