Directive to private hospitals on treating rape victims soon: Govt tells HC

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government on Tuesday informed the Bombay High Court that a directive would soon be issued to private hospitals to provide treatment to victims of sexual harassment, rape and acid attack, and the amount would be reimbursed by it. A division bench of justices N H Patil and S B Shukre, which was hearing a bunch of petitions regarding safety of women and other women-related issues, was informed that the draft resolution was ready and would be issued within a fortnight. [caption id=“attachment_2298188” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  File photo of a protest rally in Mumbai. Reuters[/caption] “As per the resolution, private hospitals would be asked to provide full medical treatment if any acid attack victim or victim of rape or sexual harassment approaches them. The amount would be then reimbursed by the state government,” state government lawyer PP Kakade said. Taking note of the increasing number of cases where hidden or spy cameras are found in dressing rooms of shops or in malls, the high court said the government should take strict action. “… Several incidents where hidden cameras are found in the changing room for women. This requires stern action. The government should consider making provisions in the relevant Act by which the shop’s license is cancelled,” the court said. It also suggested that policemen should be sensitised on handling cases related to women. “Police officials are given training when they are posted at different places like airport, railway station and so on. Similarly, policemen dealing with cases of atrocities against women should be sensitised in such a way that it instills confidence in the victims,” the court said. It asked the state Home department to consider all the suggestions and submit an affidavit in two weeks. The court was also informed by the government that no decision has been taken yet on a proposal to allow pubs and restaurants to remain open 24 hours. The court had earlier made it clear that the policy to allow pubs and restaurants to remain open 24 hours should not be implemented until the government satisfies it that safety of women is properly considered. PTI