Context:
A tragic incident involving the death of a three-year-old girl in Indore, allegedly due to Santhara administered by a Jain monk, has reignited legal and ethical debates around this ancient Jain ritual of voluntary fasting unto death.
What is Santhara (Sallekhana)?
- Definition: Santhara or Sallekhana is a sacred Jain vow of voluntary and gradual fasting unto death, believed to purify the soul and help attain moksha (liberation).
- Eligibility: Undertaken by both monks and laypersons during extreme life conditions—terminal illness, old age, or famine.
- Spiritual Process:
- Gradual renunciation of food and water.
- Undertaken under spiritual guidance.
- Marked by detachment, forgiveness, and inner reflection.
Core Jain Doctrines Underpinning Santhara
- Ahiṃsa (Non-violence): Fundamental to Jainism, ensuring no harm to any living being.
- Satya (Truthfulness): Practiced with compassion; never to cause harm.
- Asteya (Non-stealing): Absolute respect for others’ property and rights.
- Brahmacharya (Chastity): Encourages celibacy or restraint.
- Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness): Promotes detachment from material and emotional bonds.
The Triratna (Three Jewels) of Jainism
- Samyak Darshan (Right Faith): Belief in truth and the path to liberation.
- Samyak Jnana (Right Knowledge): Clarity and truth in understanding existence.
- Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct): Ethical living aligned with Jain teachings.
Legal Status of Santhara in India
- Rajasthan High Court (2015): Ruled Santhara as suicide under IPC Section 306.
- Supreme Court Stay (August 2015): Upheld Santhara as a constitutionally protected religious practice under Article 25 (freedom of religion).
- Current Legal Position: Recognised and protected, subject to voluntary and informed consent under religious supervision.
Significance in Jainism
- Spiritual Goal: Viewed as a dignified and non-violent passage into death, aiding in the shedding of karmic bonds.
- Historical Precedent: Practiced by Jain luminaries like Bhadrabahu and Chandragupta Maurya in Shravanabelagola.
- Scriptural Backing: Mentioned in Jain texts like Ratnakaranda Shravakachara and classical Tamil literature like Silappadikaram and Neelakesi.
Controversy and Ethical Concerns
- The recent Indore case raises questions about:
- Consent and age: Can minors undertake such vows?
- Oversight and responsibility: Role of religious mentors.
- Balance of faith and child rights: Reconciling religious freedom with child protection laws.
