Bihar to mandate hospital display boards on free treatment for acid attack victims

The Bihar Health Department is planning to make it compulsory for hospitals to display that acid attack victims are entitled to free treatment, in a move aimed at improving awareness and access.

Hospitals across Bihar, both government and private, will soon be required to prominently display boards stating that acid attack victims are eligible for free treatment, officials said. According to a report by Hindustan Times, the step reinforces an existing rule and aims to increase awareness. The department will soon issue an order directing civil surgeons to ensure strict compliance and monitor hospitals so that no victim is denied treatment.

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What officials said

As per the Hindustan Times report, Bihar Health Secretary Lokesh Kumar Singh said the move reinforces a 2015 order that already mandates free treatment. Speaking on the sidelines of a government programme, he said, “Officials have been asked to ensure compliance with the existing provisions and to make certain that hospitals prominently display boards informing victims of acid attack about their entitlement to free treatment.” He added that authorities will closely monitor hospitals to ensure no victim is denied care.

The step follows concerns raised by Rajeev Ranjan Prasad of the Patna High Court. Speaking at an awareness programme organised by the Bihar State Legal Services Authority at Patna’s Urja auditorium on March 29, he noted that such display boards were not visible in hospitals. He stressed that clearly displaying this information is important so that victims are aware of their rights and can access benefits.

Rising cases and legal backing

Bandana Preyashi, social welfare department secretary, shared data from the National Crime Records Bureau which shows that acid attack cases are increasing, with 176 in 2021, 202 in 2022 and 207 in 2023. She said a helpline (181) and support programmes such as counselling and training are already available.

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The right to free treatment stems from the Laxmi vs Union of India case, and in 2013 it was made mandatory for all hospitals to provide full treatment. These provisions require hospitals to offer first aid, emergency care, surgeries, and medicines, and prohibit refusal of treatment under any circumstances. The cost of treatment is to be borne by the state.

The rules were further strengthened under the Criminal Law Amendment Act, 2013. The court has also stated that any hospital refusing treatment may face legal action.