Santhara in Jainism

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

1. Ahiṃsa (Non-violence): Fundamental to Jainism, ensuring no harm to any living being.
2. Satya (Truthfulness): Practiced with compassion; never to cause harm.
3. Asteya (Non-stealing): Absolute respect for others’ property and rights.
4. Brahmacharya (Chastity): Encourages celibacy or restraint.
5. 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.