Delhi High Court: Hospitals Cannot Deny Free Treatment to Rape, Acid Attack Victims

The Delhi High Court has ruled in a landmark judgment that all hospitals, whether private or government-run, have a duty to provide free medical treatment to victims of rape and acid attacks. The court held that denial of such care would directly violate fundamental rights and existing legal provisions.

It brings into mind the provisions under Section 357C of the Code of Criminal Procedure, which mandates hospitals to provide free medical treatment to such victims and report the cases to the police.

The bench was worried in cases where the victim remains waiting for treatment or refuses treatment as that increases his suffering. The court warned, “Non-compliance would attract serious legal consequences”.
This judgment strengthens the judicial commitment toward providing timely medical aid and justice to victims of dastardly crimes. It is another important stride toward their healing and dignity.