The Supreme Court of India directs immediate medical treatment for a disabled rape survivor at AIIMS, highlighting the intersection of sexual violence, disability rights, and victim compensation under Indian law.

Supreme Court Directs Medical Treatment for Disabled Rape Survivor at AIIMS

On 2 June 2025, the Supreme Court of India passed a critical order allowing a physically disabled gangrape survivor to receive emergency medical treatment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, or any other appropriate hospital. The order was issued as a directive to the Union Government in response to a petition filed on the survivor’s behalf.

Bench Emphasizes Urgent Medical Attention

The bench, comprising Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice B.V. Nagarathna, instructed that should the petitioner’s counsel seek immediate care, the concerned authorities must facilitate her admission into AIIMS or another suitable medical facility.

Senior Advocate Shobha Gupta represented the petitioner, while the State of Punjab was represented by Additional Advocate General Shadan Farasat, and the Union Government by Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati.

Petitioner’s Background: Burn Injuries and Sexual Assault

The case highlights the petitioner’s harrowing experience. While recovering from burn injuries at a civil hospital, she sought refuge at the Khambra Church in Jalandhar. During her transit in a cab booked online, the driver allegedly stalked, raped, and unlawfully confined her, subjecting her to multiple instances of gang rape and sexual abuse.

Legal Proceedings and Fast-Track Conviction

A First Information Report (FIR) was filed under Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860, after she was rescued by a local One Stop Center. The accused was convicted by a Fast Track Court and sentenced to 10 years in prison. However, the conviction is now under appeal at the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Seeking Rehabilitation Through Victim Compensation Scheme

The ongoing petition requests full implementation of the 2017 Punjab Victim Compensation Scheme for survivors of sexual assault. Now residing in Delhi, the petitioner seeks assistance from the Delhi Legal Services Authority for comprehensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and financial aid.

Demands for Financial and Social Support

Due to her permanent disability and the trauma endured, the survivor also seeks:

Monthly financial assistance for medical care, nutrition, and housing

Support for caregiver services

Maximum compensation as per the 2017 scheme

Violation of Disability Rights in India

This case also brings attention to the lack of enforcement of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. The Act guarantees individuals with disabilities their right to dignity, healthcare, and equal justice. It mandates a legal system that is accessible and inclusive, which was not ensured during this investigation and trial.

Conclusion: A Call for Justice, Dignity, and Reform

This case underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms to ensure that survivors of sexual violence, especially those with disabilities, receive timely medical attention, legal support, and dignity. The Supreme Court’s intervention reflects a crucial step toward upholding the constitutional and human rights of marginalized individuals. However, the gaps in implementation of laws like the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and victim compensation schemes remain deeply concerning.

Strengthening accessibility, accountability, and survivor-centric legal processes is essential. Ensuring holistic rehabilitation — including medical, emotional, and financial support — should not be an exception but the norm. As society and the legal system move forward, justice must be both inclusive and compassionate.