ANALYSIS OF PUNITIVE DAMAGES IN MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE CASES

Punitive damages, designed to punish egregious conduct and deter similar wrongs, represent a distinct facet of tort law. In the context of medical negligence, the award of punitive damages is rare, controversial, and subject to strict judicial scrutiny. This research paper explores the jurisprudential basis, statutory framework, and judicial approach to awarding punitive damages in medical negligence cases in India, with comparative insights from other common law jurisdictions. It also examines the constitutional dimension, addresses the balance between patient rights and medical professional protection, and proposes reforms for a more consistent and just approach to punitive damages in healthcare litigation.