Supreme Court Declares Trauma Care a Fundamental Right

Supreme Court of India has delivered a landmark judgment declaring trauma care and emergency medical assistance as a fundamental right of every citizen. Stressing that every minute is crucial during accidents and medical emergencies, the apex court directed all states and Union Territories to establish and operationalize the ‘112’ emergency helpline within three months.

The court observed that delays in providing treatment could endanger lives and emphasized that rapid response is often the most effective medicine during emergencies. The bench also reminded hospitals of their responsibility to provide immediate care and clarified that individuals helping accident victims should not face legal harassment or police intimidation. The Supreme Court granted the Centre a three-month deadline to ensure implementation of the directives across the country.