The Telangana Transplantation of Human Organs Bill, 2025 was passed in the Assembly on Thursday (March 27, 2025). The image is used for representative purposes only.
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The Telangana Transplantation of Human Organs Bill, 2025 was passed in the Legislative Assembly with bipartisan backing, to bring the State’s organ transplantation regulations in line with the Central Act and curb illegal organ trade.
The bill was introduced by Minister for Health C. Damodar Raja Narasimha on Thursday (March 27, 2025) who highlighted the need to replace the existing Telangana Transplantation of Human Organs Act, 1995, which was originally enacted in undivided Andhra Pradesh. The 1995 Act, which has been in force in Telangana since its formation, was modeled on the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994, a law enacted by the Parliament of India to regulate organ donation and prevent commercial transactions in human organs.
“However, the Central Act underwent significant amendments in 2011, addressing various aspects of organ and tissue transplantation. While most States adopted these amendments, Telangana had not done so until now. The new bill proposes adopting the Central law in its entirety, ensuring that the latest regulatory framework is implemented in the State,” the Minister said.
Prison term increased from up to 3 years to 10 years
Mr. Raja Narsimha further said that the new act would strengthen regulations against illegal organ trade in Telangana by ensuring greater transparency and promote medical tourism in the State. Previously, violators faced a fine of ₹5,000 and up to three years in prison. Under the new law, penalties were increased, with fines of up to ₹1 crore and prison sentences of up to 10 years for those involved in organ trafficking.
Another change in the act is the expansion of criteria for declaring brain death. Earlier, only neuro surgeons and neuro physicians were authorised to make this declaration. Now, the revised regulations allow physicians, surgeons, intensivists, and anesthetists to do so, making the process more efficient and accessible, the Minister said.
Strong support from BRS
The bill received strong support from members of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), with former Health Minister and Siddipet MLA T. Harish Rao describing it as a beacon of hope for thousands of patients awaiting organ transplants in Telangana.
New bill allows grand parents to donate organs
“Currently, 3,724 individuals are on the waiting list for transplants. Previously, organ donation was restricted to parents donating to children or between siblings. Under this new bill, grandparents will also be able to donate organs to their grandchildren,” he said.
Mr. Rao also highlighted the an organ trafficking racket busted recently, highlighting that the bill would play a crucial role in curbing such illegal activities. He credited the previous BRS administration for making Telangana a leader in organ transplantation services in the country. Additionally, he suggested measures to support families dealing with the loss of a loved one. “When a person is declared brain dead, their family goes through immense grief. I propose that a government representative be present during cremation or final rites to offer respect and support to the bereaved family,” he said.
Former IT Minister and Sircilla MLA K.T. Rama Rao welcomed the Bill, stating that legislators should lead by example. “As representatives of lakhs of people, we can set a precedent by organising an organ donation camp in the Assembly,” he said.
The Telangana government had earlier passed a resolution in the Legislative Assembly on March 24, and in the Legislative Council on Wednesday (March 26, 2025) approving the adoption of the Central Act under Clause (1) of Article 252 of the Constitution. The resolution was subsequently published in the Telangana Gazette, said the Health Minister.
Published – March 27, 2025 05:57 pm IST