Kerala HC Flags Lack of Guidelines for Expert Committees in Medical Negligence Cases

The Kerala High Court has raised concerns over the lack of clear guidelines governing expert committees formed under the Jacob Mathew v. State of Punjab precedent, which review allegations of medical negligence under Section 304A of the IPC.

The Court noted that doctors are often not given a chance to be heard before First Information Reports (FIRs) are filed, violating natural justice. In one case, despite no negligence found, police still registered an FIR.

To ensure fairness under Article 21, the Court appointed an amicus curiae and called for suggestions.

The next hearing is scheduled for July 14, 2025.