Bengaluru doctor wins legal battle to donate kidney to stranger, creates rare medical milestone

After a determined legal fight, a Manipal Hospital doctor donates her kidney to an unknown patient, setting an inspiring example of compassion and courage.

In a rare and deeply inspiring medical achievement, a Bengaluru-based doctor has successfully donated her kidney to an unknown patient after fighting a long legal battle, creating a remarkable humanitarian milestone.

Dr Thankam S, a doctor working at Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru, had registered herself as an organ donor in 2014. While most donors pledge organs for use after death, Dr Thankam took a bold decision to donate her kidney while she was alive. Her wish was to help a person in need, even if the recipient was a complete stranger.

In 2023, she decided to donate her kidney to a 24-year-old patient she did not know. However, since the patient was not her relative, the hospital management initially opposed the transplant due to existing legal regulations. Determined to proceed, Dr Thankam approached the High Court in June 2025, seeking legal permission to donate her kidney voluntarily.

Also Read:‘Increase Your Pain Tolerance’: Manager’s remark on period leave triggers outrage, woman quits jobo

After hearing the case, the High Court granted approval in December 2025. The court also directed authorities to provide a list of five eligible recipients within five weeks. While the first candidate was not a medical match, compatibility was found with a 54-year-old patient, who became the final recipient.

Official permission for the transplant was granted on February 2, and the kidney transplant surgery was successfully performed on February 10. Both the donor and the recipient are now reported to be in stable and healthy condition.

Dr Thankam said that donating a kidney had been her long-time dream and she wanted to set an example for society by proving that humanity and compassion can save lives. Her courageous step has drawn admiration across medical circles and beyond, highlighting the power of selfless service.