33-YO Bengaluru Woman Passes Away After Donating 60% Liver To Husband’s Aunt, Raises Concerns

A 33-year-old woman named Archana Kamath in Bengaluru tragically passed away after donating a part of her liver to her husband’s mother’s sister, who is 65 years old. Archana was a mother to a four-year-old boy and a dedicated professional. She had allegedly volunteered to donate her liver to her husband’s aunt, but complications following the surgery led to her death.

This incident has sparked widespread discussions, especially about the role of women as living organ donors in India. It has also raised critical concerns about the circumstances surrounding her decision.

According to Hindustan Times, Archana underwent the surgery on September 4 at a private hospital, and the procedure itself was reported as successful. However, after being discharged following a seven-day recovery period, she began experiencing severe discomfort. She was re-hospitalized but succumbed to an infection.

People of India posted a video about the incident and people are raising several questions about her decision to donate her liver and whether it was made voluntarily. The relative she donated to had been waiting for a donor for 18 months. In what many see as an extraordinary and rare gesture, Archana stepped forward to donate her liver, despite not being a close blood relative. However, doubts have been raised about the possibility of coercion.

Archana’s case highlights a concerning pattern seen across India – 80% of living organ donors are women, according to TOI.

“There is also marked gender disparity, with more female donors and fewer female recipients in India, due to patriarchal norms,” a report by The Lancet states.

Representational image

While men often avoid donating organs due to concerns about health risks or post-surgery scars, women, especially wives, daughters, and daughters-in-law, are more likely to volunteer or be asked to donate. The Lancet highlights how cultural norms and familial duties can often lead women to donate organs, despite the risks involved. In some cases, the women do so willingly, out of a sense of love or responsibility, but there are growing concerns about coerced donations.

What are your views regarding this incident? Share with us!

📣 Storypick is now on Telegram! Click here to join our channel (@storypick) and never miss another great story.