K'taka Judge warns docs on ignoring mental patients

Madikeri, Karnataka, Oct 23 (UNI) Doctors ignoring deranged patients are punishable under law, District and Sessions Judge R Venkatesh said.

Inaugurating the World Mental Health Day function at the government hospital here yesterday, Mr Venkatesh said a special committee comprising doctors and government officials attended to mentally-retarded persons and they should work sincerely.

Mr Venkatesh also said a deranged can be brought to the court only after he recovered from the illness.

Parents and guardians of such persons should be aware of the free medical facility available in many hospitals in the state, he said.

Civil Judge V H Sambrani said patients without caretakers can be brought to the notice of the court through police and they can be recommended for treatment. Mentally retarded should not be ill treated by any one, he said.

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