Valsad family seeks ‘euthanasia’ over financial distress, daughter’s medical condition

A family from Gujarat’s Valsad district has allegedly sought permission for euthanasia, citing severe financial hardship and mounting mental stress linked to the medical condition of their disabled daughter.

The incident, reported from the Abrama area of Valsad, has triggered concern and discussion across South Gujarat after a letter written by the family head to the district administration surfaced on social media.

According to sources, Sureshbhai Naik, who lives near Jalaram Temple in Abrama, stated that his family had been facing prolonged financial difficulties and was struggling to arrange treatment for his disabled daughter, Ashwini, while managing household expenses.

In the letter addressed to the Valsad Collector, Naik reportedly expressed his intention to end his life along with his wife, Chitraben; son, Makrand and daughter, claiming that the family was no longer able to cope with the financial and emotional burden.

The letter, which has gone viral on social media, stated that the family wished to “get rid of this life” and was prepared to face any legal consequences arising from such a step.

Following the circulation of the letter, local police and administrative authorities reportedly initiated contact with the family.

Sources said Naik was currently under severe mental stress and had declined to speak in detail, but indicated that he intended to personally meet the district collector on Monday to present his grievances.

The incident has sparked debate in the district over whether government welfare schemes and financial assistance are effectively reaching vulnerable families facing medical and economic crises.

Under Indian law, active euthanasia remains illegal. The Supreme Court of India has permitted passive euthanasia under specific legal and medical conditions, but active termination of life is not legally permitted.