Widow of Army Martyr Seeks Euthanasia Amid Land Dispute in Rajasthan

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In a distressing plea that shows the challenges faced by some military families, Om Kanwar, widow of Naik Surendra Singh, who was killed in action in 1998, has petitioned for euthanasia over a long-running land dispute in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan. She alleges that her property has been encroached upon by neighbors, that she has faced repeated threats, and that local authorities have failed to protect her or resolve the matter.

According to Kanwar, her grievances include both police inaction and the filing of false charges against her in retaliation for her complaints. She contends that despite her late husband’s sacrifice for the nation, she has been left to fight a prolonged and exhausting legal and personal battle without adequate support. Her petition brings renewed attention to the broader question of how effectively the rights of military families are protected after the loss of a service member.

Naik Surendra Singh served in the Indian Army until he died in 1998, leaving behind his wife and family. For over two decades, Kanwar has sought to secure the land that she claims is legally hers, but says that delays in legal proceedings, combined with alleged intimidation, have left her without hope. She asserts that she turned to the extreme step of seeking euthanasia because she can no longer endure the harassment and lack of justice.

The case also raises important considerations regarding the treatment of widows of armed forces personnel. While India has established welfare schemes and ex gratia benefits for the families of martyrs, Kanwar’s situation points to gaps in the system, particularly in ensuring swift legal recourse when such families face disputes or threats.

Local police have not yet issued a formal statement in response to her allegations. Still, the petition has drawn attention from veteran groups and citizen activists, who argue that cases involving the families of soldiers should be treated with urgency and sensitivity. Legal experts note that while euthanasia is heavily restricted under Indian law, petitions of this nature often serve as a form of protest to highlight perceived failures in governance and justice delivery.

As Kanwar awaits a response to her plea, her case has become a focal point for discussions on the duty owed to those who have lost family members in service to the nation, especially when they face challenges that test both their dignity and survival.