What is Section 166B IPC? Non-treatment of victim
Published on: Lawiz Team
Detailed explanation of Section 166B IPC: Non-treatment of victim.
Official Legal Text
Whoever, being in charge of a hospital, public or private, whether run by the Central Government, the State Government, local bodies or any other person, contravenes the provisions of section 357C of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year or with fine or with both.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 166B punishes any medical practitioner who fails to provide free first aid or medical treatment to a victim of an acid attack or rape.
Purpose
To ensure that victims of acid attacks or rape receive immediate medical attention without being denied treatment.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 1 year, or fine, or both.
Key Elements
The victim must be a victim of an acid attack or rape, and the medical practitioner must fail to provide free first aid.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both.
Legal Defenses
If the medical practitioner can prove they were unable to provide treatment due to lack of resources.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts emphasize the immediate obligation to provide treatment.
Illustration
If a hospital refuses to treat a rape victim without payment, the responsible doctor can be punished under Section 166B.
FAQs
What does Section 166B IPC define?
Non-treatment of victim.
Where is Section 166B IPC applicable?
It deals with non-treatment of victim in public service or criminal situations.
Why is Section 166B IPC significant?
It protects public order, honesty in administration, and discourages criminal misconduct.
Give a real-world example involving Section 166B IPC.
Examples include public servants accepting bribes, unlawful assemblies, and misuse of official positions.
What punishment is applicable under Section 166B IPC?
Punishment varies from fines to imprisonment based on the offence's seriousness.
Is Section 166B IPC related to other provisions?
Yes, often linked with sections involving corruption, unlawful acts, or government integrity.
How do courts view Section 166B IPC?
Courts interpret it strictly to ensure justice, accountability, and safeguard public trust.