Supreme Court rebukes hospitals and doctor for denying care

The Supreme Court of India has sharply criticized two private hospitals and an Ayurvedic doctor in Ghaziabad for allegedly refusing emergency treatment to a four-year-old girl who was sexually assaulted and later died from her injuries. The court's remarks came during a hearing on July 17, 2026, where a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant described the conduct as "merciless," "ruthless," and "insensitive."

The case stems from an incident on March 16, 2026, when the child was allegedly lured away by a neighbor. She was later found unconscious and severely injured. According to the plea filed by her father, she was denied admission at two private hospitals before being taken to a government district hospital, where she was declared dead. The court is hearing the father's petition alleging serious lapses in both the medical response and the police investigation.

Addressing the doctor and the hospitals, the bench, which also included Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana, questioned their medical ethics and duty. The Chief Justice stated that any doctor presented with a grievously injured child must provide immediate assistance or facilitate a referral. "If you cannot give...