In Brief
A petitioner challenged the constitutional validity of Section 354(5) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, which mandates death by hanging for capital sentences. He argued that this method violates the right to die with dignity under Article 21 of the Constitution, as hanging causes intense physical pain and mental suffering. The Court acknowledged that while the provision was previously upheld, it may be reconsidered in light of evolving scientific knowledge and social values. The Court observed that the legislature could explore alternative, painless methods of execution to preserve human dignity even at the moment of death.
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