New Delhi, Sept. 17 -- Same-sex partners and unmarried couples can make medical decisions on behalf of their partners during emergencies if they have been nominated or authorised to do so in the event of incapacity, the National Medical Commission (NMC) clarified in a joint affidavit filed with the Centre before the Delhi High Court on Wednesday.

NMC, in its affidavit, also said that even without prior nomination, same-sex partners and unmarried couples may, in appropriate circumstances and subject to applicable law, verification and safeguards, be considered persons in a relationship of care or as a "next friend" for making medical decisions on behalf of an incapacitated partner.

The affidavit will be considered by a bench of Justice S...