Headline
The Supreme Court of India fined Rs. 25 Lakh for Hospital’s Negligence in Kerala State.
Summary
The Supreme Court of India ordered Rs. 25 lakhs compensation to a family in Kerala after Ernakulam Medical Centre by mistake handed over their relative’s dead body to another family, who then cremated it.
Key Facts
- Case name-M/s Ernakulam Medical Centre & Anr. v. Dr. PR Jayasree & Anr
- In this case, the hospital mistakenly handed the dead body of R Purushothaman to the wrong family in kerala.
- Name of Justices-Hima Kohli and Justice Sandeep Mehta
- The judges set aside the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) decision that had decreased the amount from Rs. 25 lakhs to Rs. 5 lakhs.
- The Kerala State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (SCDRC) in starting awarded a compensation of Rs. 25 lakhs with 12% interest p.a.
Legal Insights
The Supreme Court of India said that the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) interfered with the Kerala State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (SCDRC) order without any justification,confirming the hospital’s liability and negligence for service deficiency.
Impact
The Supreme Court of India reinforces the accountability of healthcare providers, showcasing that mistakes in handling deceased patients’ dead bodies can result in significant legal consequences.
Why It Matters
This case of Kerala shows the necessity of maintaining high standards of care in healthcare institutions, especially in sensitive situations involving deceased patients.
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