Delhi High Court Seeks Government Response on PIL Challenging Limited Free Treatment Policy at ILBS

New Delhi, March 18, 2026: The Delhi High Court has directed the city government and the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) to submit their response to a public interest petition questioning the institution’s policy on free treatment allocation for economically weaker sections (EWS).

A bench led by the Chief Justice issued notice after hearing arguments from the petitioner organisation, which has challenged the existing quota system for free medical services.

The PIL argues that restricting free treatment to only a small percentage of beds in the inpatient department and a limited share of outpatient services undermines the core objective of a publicly funded healthcare institution.

The petitioner contends that ILBS, being a government-supported facility specialising in serious liver conditions, should prioritise broader access for financially disadvantaged patients.

According to the plea, limiting free services may create inequality between economically strong and weaker patients, raising concerns under constitutional provisions guaranteeing equality and the right to life.

The court has scheduled the matter for further hearing in April and has instructed the authorities to file their detailed replies before the next date of proceedings.

The petition also requests reconsideration of the current policy framework, seeking either complete free treatment for all patients or a substantial increase in the EWS allocation.