In a landmark ruling, the Delhi High Court has mandated that both government and private hospitals must provide free treatment to victims of sexual assault, acid attacks, and similar crimes. The court emphasized that refusal to treat such victims constitutes a criminal offense, with hospitals facing legal action for non-compliance.
A bench comprising Justice Pratibha M. Singh and Justice Amit Sharma stated that victims of sexual offenses, gang rapes, and acid attacks are entitled to free medical care as a legal right, irrespective of the hospital type. The court also directed that this obligation be communicated to doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff.
Comprehensive Medical Care is Mandatory
The court clarified that victims should receive more than just first aid, including diagnostic procedures, surgeries, mental health counseling, psychological support, and necessary medical tests free of charge. Treatment for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases must also be provided at no cost. Additionally, hospitals were instructed not to demand identification documents in emergencies, with any refusal of treatment being classified as a criminal act, warranting police intervention.
Information Display in Hospitals
The court ordered all hospitals to prominently display boards in English and local languages, informing victims about free treatment services. It also specified that no referral from legal services authorities is required for accessing treatment, as this right is protected under Section 357C of the Indian Penal Code and the POCSO Rules, 2020.
