The Supreme Court on Monday took suo motu cognisance of a case involving a lawyer who was seriously injured after being stabbed by her husband.
The Bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi ordered the Delhi Police Commissioner to assign the investigation to a senior police officer, preferably a woman officer of SP or DSP rank.It also directed that allegations regarding denial of emergency medical treatment by certain hospitals be examined.
The injured lawyer, Madhu Rajput, who practises in Delhi, was reportedly attacked at her husband’s office and suffered serious injuries. leaving her in a critical health condition
Taking note of the fact that the victim had approached multiple hospitals before finally receiving treatment at the AIIMS trauma centre, the Apex Court ordered a separate probe into why she was not admitted earlier for emergency care.
The Bench also directed that immediate financial assistance be provided to the victim through the National Legal Services Authority to support her medical treatment and the care of her children.
The Bench sought a status report on the investigation by the next date of hearing.
Appearing for the Centre, , Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati informed the Court that the main accused has been arrested and a criminal case has been registered.
The Court noted that the victim suffered serious injuries affecting vital organs. It also recorded that while the husband has been arrested, other accused, including the victim’sin-laws, were yet to be traced.
The Court further took note of the condition of the victim’s three minor daughters, who were currently with their maternal grandparents. It directed the police to verify their whereabouts and allowed the existing care arrangement to continue for the time being.