In a significant step toward strengthening victim-centric healthcare and justice, the Rajasthan Health Department has issued a directive mandating that all government and private hospitals, including nursing homes, provide free, immediate, and comprehensive medical treatment to victims of acid attacks. The order underscores the state government’s commitment to ensuring timely medical care and long-term rehabilitation for survivors of one of the most brutal forms of violence.

According to the directive, hospitals are required to offer emergency care without delay, regardless of the victim’s ability to pay or the completion of legal formalities. The treatment must include essential medical services such as first aid, burn management, medications, diagnostic procedures, and reconstructive or corrective surgeries where necessary. The Health Department has emphasized that the primary focus must be on saving lives, minimizing physical damage, and supporting the recovery process of survivors.

The order applies uniformly to public hospitals, private medical institutions, and nursing homes, leaving no room for discrimination or refusal of treatment. Medical facilities have been instructed not to demand advance payments, police reports, or identification documents as a precondition for initiating care. Any delay or denial of treatment, the department warned, would be viewed as a serious violation of medical ethics and legal obligations.

To ensure compliance, the Health Department has made it clear that strict action will be taken against hospitals found violating the directive. Penalties may include legal proceedings, cancellation of licenses, and other disciplinary measures under applicable healthcare and criminal laws. District health अधिकारियों have been tasked with monitoring implementation and responding swiftly to complaints related to non-compliance.

Acid attack survivors often face lifelong physical, psychological, and social challenges. Immediate medical intervention plays a critical role in reducing the severity of injuries and improving long-term outcomes. By mandating free and comprehensive treatment, the Rajasthan government aims to remove financial barriers that frequently prevent victims from accessing quality care, especially in the crucial hours following an attack.

The directive aligns with national legal provisions and Supreme Court guidelines that recognize acid attack victims as entitled to free medical treatment and compensation. It also reinforces broader efforts to strengthen survivor support systems, including rehabilitation, counseling, and social reintegration.

Public health experts and rights advocates have welcomed the move, calling it a necessary step toward accountability and humane healthcare delivery. They have, however, stressed the importance of strict enforcement and awareness among both healthcare providers and the public to ensure that victims are not turned away in moments of crisis.

By issuing this directive, Rajasthan has set a strong precedent in prioritizing victim rights and emergency healthcare access. Effective implementation of the policy could significantly improve survival rates and quality of life for acid attack survivors, while sending a clear message that denial of essential medical care will not be tolerated under any circumstances.