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International Journal of
Law
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VOL. 12, ISSUE 3 (2026)
Rising suicide cases in Bharat: Evaluating the effectiveness of the Mental Healthcare Act 2017 in protecting the right to life and mental well-being
Authors
Rakesh Singh, Dr. Antima Baldwa
Abstract
Mental health has emerged as one of the most significant public health and human rights concerns in contemporary Bharat. Despite remarkable advancements in medical science, legal reforms and public awareness campaigns, the incidence of suicide continues to rise among various sections of society, including students, farmers, working professionals, women, senior citizens and marginalized communities. Suicide is no longer viewed merely as an individual act but as a complex socio-legal and public health issue influenced by psychological, social, economic, cultural and institutional factors. Recognizing this reality, the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 marked a transformative shift in India's mental health jurisprudence by adopting a rights-based approach. The Act decriminalized the attempt to commit suicide under Section 115 by presuming that every individual attempting suicide is under severe stress and deserves care, treatment and rehabilitation instead of punishment. This legislative reform reflects India's commitment to protecting human dignity, equality and the constitutional guarantee of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. However, the increasing number of suicide cases in Bharat raises serious concerns regarding the practical implementation and effectiveness of the Act. Limited availability of mental health professionals, inadequate infrastructure, social stigma, lack of public awareness, unequal access to mental healthcare services and weak institutional coordination continue to impede the realization of the objectives envisioned by the legislation. The gap between statutory rights and their implementation remains one of the greatest challenges confronting the mental healthcare system. This research paper critically evaluates the effectiveness of the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 in addressing the growing challenge of suicide in Bharat. It examines the relationship between mental health and the constitutional right to life, analyses the legal framework governing suicide prevention and identifies the practical barriers affecting the implementation of mental healthcare policies. The paper also highlights the need for integrated legal reforms, community participation, institutional accountability and improved access to affordable mental healthcare services. It concludes that while the Mental Healthcare Act 2017 represents a progressive legislative milestone, its success ultimately depends upon effective implementation, coordinated governance and a collective societal commitment towards protecting mental well-being and preserving human dignity.
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Pages:282-288
How to cite this article:
Rakesh Singh, Dr. Antima Baldwa "Rising suicide cases in Bharat: Evaluating the effectiveness of the Mental Healthcare Act 2017 in protecting the right to life and mental well-being". International Journal of Law, Vol 12, Issue 3, 2026, Pages 282-288

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