Arjun Ram Meghwal Launches The Medicolegal Guidebook

Union minister of state for law and justice “Arjun Ram Meghwal” on Sunday launched “The Medicolegal Guidebook” in New Delhi, aiming to strengthen the interface between healthcare practice and legal compliance. The publication seeks to address growing medico-legal challenges in India’s healthcare system, with a focus on patient safety, ethical conduct and accountability.

Bridging the Gap Between Medicine and Law

Speaking at the launch, the minister underlined the increasing relevance of medico-legal awareness amid rising litigation and complex regulatory frameworks. The guidebook is designed to provide practical clarity for doctors and healthcare institutions on legal responsibilities, consent, documentation, negligence standards and patient rights. The initiative reflects broader efforts to improve trust between patients and healthcare providers through informed and lawful medical practice.

Authors and Professional Expertise

The book is co-authored by a multidisciplinary team bringing together medical and legal expertise. Contributors include Deepak Singla, Medical Director of Maharaja Agrasen Hospital; Aarushi Singla, paediatric endocrinologist at ESIC Medical College and Hospital; senior advocate Rakesh Malhotra; and advocate Kushal Malhotra. The authors stated that the guidebook offers hands-on guidance to help practitioners align clinical decision-making with legal and ethical norms.

Focus on Patient Safety and Ethical Practice

According to the authors, “The Medicolegal Guidebook” equips healthcare professionals to minimise legal risks while improving standards of care. Emphasis has been placed on ethical responsibility, informed consent, proper record-keeping and adherence to statutory requirements. The publication is positioned as a reference tool for doctors, hospital administrators and legal professionals dealing with healthcare-related disputes.

Important Facts for Exams

• Medico-legal cases involve the intersection of medical practice and law.
• Patient consent and documentation are critical legal safeguards in healthcare.
• Medical negligence is assessed against established standards of care.
• Healthcare is governed by both civil and criminal legal provisions.

Presence of Legal and Medical Dignitaries

The book was unveiled in the presence of senior members of the legal and medical fraternity, including former Supreme Court judge Justice Hima Kohli and High Court judge Justice Madhu Jain, along with other eminent professionals. The gathering highlighted the need for continued dialogue between law and medicine to ensure compliance, accountability and protection of patient rights within India’s evolving healthcare landscape.