URGENT UPDATE: The Supreme Court of India has called on the Central Government to reconsider its stance on execution methods, pushing for the adoption of lethal injection as a humane alternative to hanging. During a hearing on October 14, 2025, the apex court criticized the government’s reluctance to modernize execution practices, highlighting the need for change amid evolving global standards.
The Court, led by Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, expressed deep concern over the government’s “status-quoist” approach. Justice Nath stated, “The problem is the government is not ready to evolve… it’s a very old procedure, things have changed over a period of time.” This urgent appeal comes as part of a public interest litigation filed in 2017 by senior advocate Rishi Malhotra, who argues that hanging is cruel and can leave the condemned suffering for up to 40 minutes.
Malhotra urged the Court to allow death row convicts a choice between hanging and lethal injection, a method already in practice within the U.S. military. However, the government defended hanging as “the safest and quickest method,” warning that alternatives could lead to botched executions that might be even more barbaric.
The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for November 11, 2025, as it continues to press the government to address these critical issues. The Court referenced an earlier order from May 2023 that suggested forming an expert committee to review execution methods, indicating a move towards more humane practices.
The Law Commission of India has previously pushed for reform, recommending in its 187th Report, released in October 2003, that lethal injection be introduced alongside hanging. The report emphasized that execution methods should be certain, humane, and dignified, reflecting modern human rights standards. It noted that the current practice of hanging can lead to painful asphyxiation, a fate deemed cruel and inhuman.
In a world where evolving notions of human decency are calling for modernization, the Supreme Court’s push for lethal injection represents a significant shift in India’s approach to capital punishment. The Commission’s recommendations include allowing judges discretion in selecting the method of execution and giving convicts a say in the process.
As this story develops, the implications for India’s judicial system and human rights practices are profound. The next hearing on November 11 will be pivotal in determining whether India will move towards a more humane execution method or continue its reliance on hanging.
Stay tuned for updates as the Supreme Court continues to advocate for change in the execution process, reflecting a broader shift in societal values and international standards. This is a critical moment for India’s legal landscape and the rights of those facing the death penalty.
