Section 200 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) applies to any person in charge of a hospital, whether public or private, run by the Central Government, State Government, local bodies, or private entities, who fails to provide treatment to a victim in violation of Section 397 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
This law ensures that hospitals do not refuse medical treatment to those in need.
Punishment:
Whoever fails to provide treatment to a victim in violation of the law shall be punished with imprisonment of up to one year, or with a fine, or both.
How It Protects:
This section ensures that victims receive immediate medical care without discrimination or bureaucratic delays.
It holds hospitals and medical professionals accountable for neglecting emergency cases.
Example:
If a private hospital refuses to treat a road accident victim due to financial concerns, it is punishable under this section.
Similarly, if a government hospital denies emergency care without valid reasons, the responsible authorities can be prosecuted.
