Delhi High Court Order State on sexual abuse

Source: The post Delhi High Court Order State on sexual abuse has been created, based on the article “The lack of empathy for survivors of sexual violence, assault” published in “Indian Express” on 10th January 2025

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- Governance-Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health.

Context: The article discusses the Delhi High Court’s order mandating free medical treatment for survivors of rape, child sexual abuse, and acid attacks. It highlights issues like lack of clothes for victims after forensic examinations and urges better support systems.

What Does the Delhi High Court Order State on sexual abuse?

1. The Delhi High Court ruled on December 10, 2024, that all hospitals must provide free medical treatment to victims of rape, child sexual abuse, and acid attacks.
2. Treatment includes first aid, diagnosis, surgeries, counseling (physical and psychological), and family support.
3. Hospitals cannot demand ID proof before providing emergency care to victims.

Denial of free medical treatment is a criminal offense punishable by one-year imprisonment, fine, or both.

4. The Ministry of Health Guidelines (2014) require hospitals to offer free services such as pathology tests, radiology, and medicines.
5. The court highlighted that hospitals routinely deny free treatment, even as courts hear rape and child sexual abuse cases in large numbers, signaling a grave governance crisis.
6. The political class fails to treat sexual violence as a public health issue, ignoring victims’ urgent needs.
7. The ruling emphasizes “therapeutic jurisprudence” to restore victims’ dignity and health.
8. Clothes and personal items seized during forensic investigations must be replaced by the state, ensuring victims are not left vulnerable.

What is the broader significance of the judgment?

The order highlights the need for dignity, safety, and comprehensive care for survivors of sexual violence. It calls for societal and institutional changes to ensure their rights are protected.

Question for practice:

Examine the key directives and broader significance of the Delhi High Court’s order for survivors of sexual violence.