Supreme Court Criticises Hospitals for Denying Treatment to Assaulted Child

Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh: The Supreme Court has strongly criticised two private hospitals and their doctors for allegedly refusing timely treatment to a four-year-old girl who was sexually assaulted, resulting in a delay in emergency medical care. According to the court, the child was allegedly denied treatment because her family could not afford the hospital fees. The bench observed that healthcare professionals have a duty to provide emergency medical treatment irrespective of a patient’s financial condition and directed the hospitals to provide monetary compensation to the victim’s family. The court also expressed concern over alleged lapses in the police investigation and emphasised the need for accountability.

Action to Be Taken

All hospitals should provide immediate emergency medical treatment to victims of serious crimes without delaying care because of financial considerations. Authorities should ensure strict compliance with legal obligations relating to emergency healthcare, investigate any negligence promptly, and strengthen coordination between healthcare institutions and law enforcement agencies to safeguard the rights and welfare of child victims.

📰 Source: Manorama Online (English)