THE MENTAL HEALTHCARE ACT, 2017: A PARADIGM SHIFT IN SUICIDE DECRIMINALIZATION AND HUMAN RIGHTS IN INDIA

Author Name: 1. Dr. Parul Pareek

Volume/Issue: 05/07

Country: India

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/12.2024-89789171/UIJIR

Affiliation:

1. Associate Advocate; Independent Researcher; Former Assistant Professor, School of Law, Mody University of Science & Technology, Lakshmangarh, Sikar, Rajasthan, India.

ABSTRACT

The Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, signifies a transformative change in India's strategy towards mental health and suicide prevention, moving away from punitive measures to embrace a more empathetic approach to care. By decriminalising attempted suicide under Section 115 and adopting a rights-based approach to mental health care, the Act brings India in line with international human rights standards. This paper examines the development of laws regarding suicide in India, the implications for human rights associated with the criminalisation of suicide, and the effects of the legislation on individuals facing mental health challenges. This analysis delves into the obstacles of implementation, societal attitudes, and the wider consequences for the mental health landscape in India. Ultimately, the study highlights the importance of combining human rights principles with mental health policy to create a more inclusive and supportive framework for mental health care.

Key words: Mental Healthcare Act, 2017; Suicide decriminalization; Human rights; Mental health in India; Section 115; Policy analysis; Suicide prevention.