"Doctors Are Backbone Of Healthcare, Police Officer's Badge Is Symbol Of Trust": Kerala HC On Cross-Allegations By Medical Officer & Circle Inspector

The Kerala High Court has quashed criminal proceedings against a doctor under Section 166B of the IPC, who was accused of showing unwillingness to examine the victim in a child missing case and failing to issue a medical certificate, on finding that the ingredients of the said offence were not made out. Section 357 CrPC states that hospitals must provide first aid or medical treatment free of cost to victims of acid attack and rape. says that the hospital, public or private etc., should provide first aid or medical treatment, free of cost to victims of any offence covered under Section 326A, 376, 376A, 376AB, 376B, 376C, 376D, 376DA, 376DB or Section 376E of the Indian Penal Code…the victim produced is not a victim of an offence under Section 326A, 376, 376A, 376AB, 376B, 376C, 376D, 376DA, 376DB or Section 376E of IPC, as on the time when she is produced. The State Police Chief will depute a competent officer to enquire about the allegation against the 2nd respondent by the petitioner, after giving him sufficient opportunity of hearing.” As such, the proceedings against the doctor under Section 166B of the IPC were quashed.