Punjab Mandates 48-Hour Deadline for Submission of Medico-Legal Reports

Chandigarh: Days after the high court expressed concern over long delays in the preparation of medical reports in criminal cases, the Punjab Health Department in response has directed that all government doctors must submit medical reports, including X-rays, CT scans and other test results, to investigating officers (IOs) within 48 hours of their preparation.

Taking the matter seriously, the health department also warned of disciplinary and legal action if a concerned doctor fails to submit the report within time. The order was issued to all heads of government medical institutions to ensure that the instructions are being circulated and followed properly.

Also read- Submit Medical reports in criminal cases within 48 hours, HC tells Haryana doctors

The department's directive comes in the wake of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which directed the Haryana Health Department to ensure that doctors hand over medical reports to investigating officers within two days, since long delays in the preparation of medical reports in criminal cases hamper both the police investigations and the delivery of prompt justice.

Medical Dialogues recently reported that concerned over long delays in the preparation of medical reports in criminal cases, which hamper both the police investigations and the delivery of prompt justice, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed the Haryana Health Department to ensure that doctors hand over such reports to investigating officers within two days.

The court strongly criticised the current situation, noting that in many cases, medical reports are delayed for weeks or even months. Justice Shekhawat observed that such negligence, whether done by doctors or police officers, seriously harms the investigation process and delays justice.

Following this, the health department issued an order complying with the court's directive. Recently, Principal Secretary (Health) Kumar Rahul held a meeting with senior officials to establish a compliance mechanism. He confirmed that standard operating procedures (SOPs) would soon be finalised and circulated to institutional heads.

As per a TOI news report, the director general of police (DGP) has also issued directions to investigating officers, instructing them to ensure that all reports from doctors and medical authorities are collected within the prescribed timeframe. Any default in this regard will be viewed seriously.

Mixed reaction from medical associations

Medical professionals have acknowledged the challenges but pointed to limited infrastructure as a major hurdle. Dr Mehtab Bal from the Resident Doctors’ Association highlighted that the heavy patient load, lack of staff, and shortage of equipment make it difficult to manage everything efficiently. He explained that emergency and life-saving cases are given priority, while smaller centres often lack CT and MRI machines, leading to a large number of referrals to major hospitals like Rajindra, HT reported.

Meanwhile, the Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA), which represents government doctors, has strongly opposed the recent court order and the related administrative instructions.

Dr Akhil Sarin, president of PCMSA, stated that their executive body has unanimously agreed to challenge the decision in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. A 10-member committee has been set up to handle the legal process, and the appeal is expected to be filed by late July or early August.

"At the same time, we demand the recruitment of more computer operators and an upgrade in medico-legal data software to ensure timely documentation and compliance," Dr Akhil added.

Also read- Doctors to be held liable for delay in medical reports in criminal cases