Organ donation made easier

Vishav Bharti

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, March 17

To make organ donation easier and systematic, the Punjab Vidhan Sabha today unanimously paved way for implementation of the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues (Amendment) Act, 2011.

Earlier, the state allowed organ transplantation on basis of the Transplantation of Human Organs Act, 1994, which had several limitations.

With the amended Act in place, now grandparents and grandchildren can also become organ donors. So far, the organs in the state were donated or received only in first generation relations like between spouse, brother-sister and parents.

Besides, if blood group doesn’t match between the above-mentioned relations, now donors can be swapped as well among different groups of organ donors and recipients.

Earlier, the Act was passed in the Punjab’s Cabinet meeting held in December.

In the Transplantation of Human Organs Act, 1994, there was no mention of brain dead donors, who enter into irreversible stage, but their organs can be harvested. Under this Act, there will be a provision to retrieve organs from brain dead patients too.

In the earlier Act, there was no mention of the donor’s age. According to the new Act, a person can donate only if he/she is above 18 years of age.

Besides, now hospitals will have a qualified person to coordinate organ donation. The hospital will ensure enhanced punishment and fine for those who will indulge in any malpractice or violation of statutes. Only registered hospitals can carry out organ transplants.