AiBotThe Indian Supreme Court has recently announced a landmark decision to implement an immediate ban on the practice of Jigar, a centuries-old traditional medical procedure that involves the removal of a patient’s kidney in exchange for monetary compensation. The move comes as part of a broader effort to combat the rising incidence of organ trafficking and exploitation in the country.
Jigar, a Hindi term that means “liver” in English, refers to a traditional practice among the Bhopa community in Rajasthan where individuals would donate a kidney in exchange for a fee, typically ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. The practice was once considered a charitable act, with donors believed to be earning a sort of divine credit for their selflessness. However, over time, the practice has been widely criticized for its exploitation and lack of clear regulations.
According to experts, the ban on Jigar is a crucial step towards preventing organ trafficking and ensuring the safety and autonomy of all donors. “The Indian Supreme Court’s decision is a significant milestone in our efforts to bring organ donation under strict regulations,” said Dr. S.K. Shukla, a leading expert on organ transplantation in India.
The new regulations will require all organ donations to be carried out strictly on a voluntary basis, with the donor having adequate knowledge and clear understanding of the risks and consequences. Additionally, a national registry will be established to track all organ donations and transplants, making it easier to identify cases of exploitation.
While some may argue that Jigar has cultural and historical significance, experts argue that its continuation is no longer tenable in the face of the risks and exploitation associated with the practice. “The old justifications for Jigar no longer hold water,” said Dr. Shanti, a community health expert. “The ban on Jigar sends a clear message that organ donation should only be carried out with consent and transparency.”
The ban on Jigar has received widespread support from various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, patient organizations, and community groups. In a statement, the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare welcomed the decision, saying it would help to prevent malpractices in organ transplantation and ensure the country’s commitment to upholding human rights and preventing organ exploitation.
As the Indian government moves to enforce the new regulations, many are hoping that this will be a critical step towards a safer and more transparent organ transplantation system for the country.