Over years of paralysis pain: Madhya Pradesh teacher seeks euthanasia from President Droupadi Murmu; donates property to students, continues teaching from wheelchair
By: Litha Achari
INDORE: A 52-year-old government school teacher from Indore has written to President Droupadi Murmu, seeking permission for euthanasia due to unbearable physical pain caused by years of paralysis.
Chandrakanta Jethwani, a teacher at Government Middle School, Jabran Colony, continues to teach while being confined to a wheelchair, spending nearly eight hours a day in severe discomfort.
In her plea to the President, Jethwani said, 'I will not commit suicide because I teach my students to live with courage. But my body no longer supports me. I go through excruciating pain every day. I am seeking euthanasia so that my body parts can be donated for someone else who might get a new life.'
Her condition began in 2020, following an alleged case of medical negligence. A botched orthopaedic treatment, she claimed, left the lower half of her body paralysed. She also suffers from Osteogenesis Imperfecta, a disorder that causes brittle and fragile bones.
Despite her health condition, Jethwani's dedication to teaching remained unshaken. She resumed work from her wheelchair and became a symbol of resilience and strength for her students.
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Jethwani, who has no family, has donated all her property to six underprivileged students from her school. She has also pledged to donate her organs to MGM Medical College, expressing hope that her body could bring new life to others.
'My organs are not of use for me but more valuable than the Kohinoor diamond if they can restore someone's sight or save a life,' she added.
Her story has sparked debate around dignified end-of-life choices and the need for compassionate care for those suffering from chronic pain.
Sakharam Prasad, Principal of Govt. Middle School, Jabran Colony, praised her commitment. 'She teaches science to the middle school students and is very dedicated towards teaching. However, she has several medical issues, from multiple fractures to paralysis. Though she never told me about the euthanasia plea,' he said.
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