Delhi High Court Orders Reimbursement for Denied Medical Care in Landmark Ruling

The Delhi High Court has mandated the government to reimburse Rs 12,000 to a minor denied treatment at two hospitals, citing a violation of the right to life. Justice Kaurav emphasized the State's duty to provide timely medical care and allowed for further compensation claims in civil court.

In a significant legal ruling, the Delhi High Court has ordered the government of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi to reimburse Rs 12,000 to a minor who was denied urgent medical treatment by two government hospitals. This decision underscores the State's constitutional obligation to safeguard the right to life by providing timely medical assistance.

Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav directed the reimbursement to be completed within two months. The case involved a minor student who sustained a fracture in his left arm at a government school. He faced refusal of treatment at Dr. Hedgewar Aarogya Sansthan due to a lack of medical supplies and at Chacha Nehru Bal Chikitsalaya due to the unavailability of doctors, forcing him to seek care at a private hospital.

The Court relied on the Supreme Court precedent set in Paschim Banga Khet Mazdoor Samity vs State of West Bengal, affirming that denying timely medical treatment violates the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. While the reimbursement decision was straightforward, Justice Kaurav left the door open for additional compensation through civil litigation, should more complex issues of fact emerge.

(With inputs from agencies.)