'It's time to go now, okay?': Harish Rana's emotional farewell with family as AIIMS begins passive euthanasia protocol

NEW DELHI: A 22-second clip showed, 32-year-old Harish Rana, lying on a hospital bed with his emotional mother by his side. In the video, a woman can be heard saying, “Forgive everyone, apologise to everyone. It's time to go now, okay?Rana was shifted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Saturday and placed under a specialised medical team for passive euthanasia. He is currently admitted to the palliative care unit at AIIMS’ Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital.According to hospital officials, Rana will remain under the care of palliative care specialists and other doctors who will follow established medical and legal protocols for passive euthanasia. The process generally involves withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment for patients with irreversible medical conditions while ensuring adequate pain relief and supportive care.According to hospital officials, when recovery is no longer possible, treatment shifts to palliative care, which focuses on relieving symptoms and keeping the patient comfortable rather than artificially prolonging life.Care plans are tailored for each patient, addressing physical, psychological and social needs, with doctors regularly assessing the patient’s condition and adjusting treatment. Decisions are made in consultation with the family, and the duration of this phase can vary from days to weeks depending on the patient’s condition.