Supreme Court rebukes doctor for delayed treatment of four-year-old sexual assault survivor

The Supreme Court has strongly criticised a doctor for allegedly failing to provide immediate medical treatment to a four-year-old sexual assault survivor, calling the conduct "merciless, ruthless and insensitive." The court made the observations while hearing a case related to the medical response and investigation into the assault of the child in Gurugram.

A Bench expressed serious concern over the delay in treating the child, stressing that medical professionals have a legal and ethical duty to provide urgent care to survivors of sexual violence without waiting for procedural formalities. The judges observed that timely medical intervention is crucial in such cases and said any failure to do so could have severe consequences for the victim's health and well-being.

The court also directed the concerned authorities to examine the doctor's conduct and ensure accountability where necessary. The case forms part of the Supreme Court's continued oversight of the investigation into the assault, during which it has repeatedly raised concerns about the handling of the matter by various authorities.

The proceedings underscore the judiciary's emphasis on ensuring prompt medical care, child protection and a sensitive institutional response in cases involving minors.