Supreme Court mandates full medical care for Delhi acid attack survivor

The Supreme Court of India has issued a directive to Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in Delhi to ensure complete medical care for an acid attack survivor, overruling any financial considerations that might limit the treatment scope.

The court's order encompasses all aspects of the survivor's medical rehabilitation, including plastic and reconstructive surgery procedures and the full range of prescribed medications. The hospital has been instructed to proceed with treatment irrespective of associated costs, placing the burden of expenses firmly on the medical institution rather than the patient.

This judicial intervention underscores the court's commitment to ensuring adequate healthcare access for victims of violent crimes. Acid attacks, which leave survivors with severe physical and psychological trauma, often require extensive and prolonged medical intervention including multiple surgical procedures and ongoing therapeutic care.

The directive serves as a reminder of the state's obligation to provide comprehensive support to crime victims, particularly in cases involving grievous bodily harm. By mandating full treatment coverage, the Supreme Court has reinforced the principle that financial constraints cannot be grounds for denying essential medical care to those injured in criminal acts.