State Of Haryana & Ors vs Smt. Santra

The Supreme Court held that medical negligence occurred when Smt. Santra underwent a sterilisation operation that failed, resulting in an unwanted pregnancy despite assurances of successful sterilisation. The Court affirmed the lower courts' findings and awarded damages of Rs.54,000 under the principle of tort law, emphasizing that the State is vicariously liable for the negligence of its medical officers. The appeal by the State of Haryana was dismissed, upholding the victim's right to compensation for the undue burden caused by the failed procedure.