Supreme Court Addresses Liability of Deceased Doctor's Estate in Negligence Case Legal Heirs May Be Held Responsible for Compensation under Consumer Protection Act
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has addressed the complex issue of liability concerning the estate of a deceased doctor accused of negligence. The case, Kumud Lall v. Suresh Chandra Roy (Dead), has significant implications for how similar cases might be handled in the future, particularly concerning the liability of legal heirs for the actions of deceased individuals.
The case involves a consumer complaint initially filed against a doctor for alleged negligence. The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum had allowed the complaint, only for it to be subsequently set aside by the State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. However, as the case was under revision by the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, both the doctor and the complainant passed away, raising questions about the continuation of the legal proceedings.
In a critical observation, the Supreme Court noted that the estate of the deceased doctor could potentially be liable for compensation through the legal heirs. This consideration stems from the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, which was the applicable law at the time of the cause of action. The case's ramifications prompted the court to appoint senior counsel Mr. Raghenth Basant and Mr. Varun Kapoor as Amicus Curiae to assist in navigating the legal complexities involved.
The Supreme Court has also requested further documentation to be prepared by the appointed Amicus Curiae, with a brief note expected to be filed before the next hearing scheduled for February 3, 2026. This decision underscores the evolving nature of consumer protection laws and the broader implications for estates of individuals accused of professional negligence.
Statutory provision(s): Consumer Protection Act, 1986
Kumud Lall v. Suresh Chandra Roy (Dead), (SC) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2842109
