What is the role of an Ombudsman?
- Every State Government must appoint at least one Ombudsman. They may be called by different names in different states (for example, HIV Lokpal in Mumbai or Anti-discrimination Officer in Delhi).
- You can approach the Ombudsman if you face HIV-related discrimination or if you are denied healthcare services.
- Rules about the Ombudsman are specific to each state and union territory, refer to file complaint.
- After hearing both sides, the Ombudsman must give a decision within 30 days (within 24 hours if it is a medical emergency), with written reasons.
- If you are unhappy with the decision, you can still go to court.