In an unprecedented move, the Parliament this week passed a bill that seeks to decriminalise suicide attempt by mentally ill people. Among other provisions, the Mental Healthcare Bill also aims to provide for the right to better healthcare for people afflicted with mental illness. The bill, passed in Rajya Sabha in August 2016 with 134 amendments, aims to make suicide attempts by mentally ill persons non-punishable under the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Earlier, Section 309 of the Indian Penal Code, deemed attempt to suicide a criminal offence that would result in imprisonment. We speak to mental healthcare specialists, and prominent celebrities who champion the cause of mental health to ask what they make of the bill, and its benefits. We also seek their opinion on making suicide attempts a non-criminal act as a whole.
‘We are only decriminalsing the act, not providing emotional care’
Dr C.J. John, Psychiatrist
Most suicide attempts are a cry for help and after that putting them through an arrest means we are looking at the emotional side under which the attempt was made. In that case the decriminalisation is a positive step. At the same time it should also be seen that the survivors are given proper mental healthcare after they are discharged from the hospital, it will be difficult if it is not made mandatory and is documented. We are only decriminalsing the act but not providing the emotional care for the individual concerned. Another important factor is that there could be misuse. In situations such as bride burning it can be twisted into an attempted suicide, in that case it will not even come under police attention. Authorities should be vigilant about the potential misuse of the law.
‘The bill is willing is to listen to the patient’s side’
Rachana Iyer, Mental Health Advocate, and Co-Founder at CraYon Impact
The Mental Healthcare Bill of 1987 was draconian in nature. But, the new amendments and provisions, are more patient-centric. Today, the bill looks at approaching mental health patients as a part of our community. Earlier, in mental health cases, psychiatrists were given the power to define the fate of the patient. Now, the bill is willing to listen to the patient’s side as well. The bill also introduces ‘advance directive’, which is a living will that gives power of attorney to a surrogate decision-maker during the incompetency of the person making it. The government’s decision to decriminalise something that isn’t the person’s fault altogether is welcome.
‘I have my apprehensions about the implementation’
Kinjal Pandya, Consulting Psychologist
Suicide was criminalised because a lot of vile people used to commit crimes (like dowry-related cases, murders, and so on) and just blame it on mental health or suicide. While I think the bill is a good move, I still have my apprehensions regarding it, mainly about the implementation. How many people will be taking the move in a positive manner and how many will take it in a negative manner? Nonetheless, the fact that the government has started addressing the issue of mental health in itself is a good news.
‘The Healthcare bill is a much required helping hand for patients’
G. Shivakumar, Clinical Psychologist
People who consider committing suicide or who attempt suicide are in urgent need for help and shouldn’t be accused of any criminal offense. It’s their last cry for help and people (professionals, family and friends alike) should come out to help them. The Healthcare bill is a much required helping hand for patients.
‘The mental Healthcare bill has been long due’
Dr Mini Rao, Psychologist
The Mental Healthcare bill is a great move and long due. However, I hope the bill is very specific and has laid out the provisions clearly. In our country, mental illness is synonymous with depression, but it is a lot beyond just that. As for decriminalising suicide, it only makes sense because at that point, the person is helpless and thinks death to be the only way out of their problems. Although, suicide is an extremely controversial issue altogether — some may call it cowardly, some say people are driven to that point. It’s up to parents, partners or caregivers to try and identify the symptoms and try to avert a suicide attempt on the whole. Look for signs; like if they seem detached to their prized possessions, look up ways to kill themselves on the Internet — family and friends have to be on the lookout at all times.
