New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India on Thursday issued strict directives to states, ensuring timely compensation and medical treatment for acid attack survivors, even in private hospitals.
Key Highlights of the Verdict:
- Acid attack survivors facing delays in compensation or denial of treatment at private hospitals can approach their respective State Legal Services Authority (SALSA) for help.
- Several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, have not yet filed their responses to the Supreme Court regarding the issue.
- The Centre sought more time to submit its reply.
Court’s Observations & Directives
- A two-judge bench led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar took serious note of complaints from Mumbai-based NGO Acid Survivors Sahas Foundation.
- The NGO highlighted that survivors in Maharashtra struggle to receive compensation and are denied treatment at private hospitals.
- The Supreme Court directed private hospitals not to refuse admission or treatment to acid attack survivors.
- The court expressed concern over a four-year-old acid attack survivor who has not received any compensation yet.
- The court warned that any refusal by hospitals must be reported to the judiciary for action.
Next Steps:
- The Supreme Court ordered all states to file their replies within four weeks regarding increasing compensation for acid attack survivors.
- The SALSA offices must ensure speedy financial aid and assist survivors in accessing medical treatment.
This ruling marks a major step toward ensuring justice and medical care for acid attack survivors, pushing state governments and private hospitals to fulfill their legal responsibilities.
