Publication

Abstract : The custodial torture of detainees is a worldwide phenomenon which has inspired a number of declarations and conventions adopted by different world agencies. Medical professionals are under obligation to detect, treat and help in the rehabilitation of torture victims. During the last few years, much medical work has been initiated against the practice of torture. In order to assess the knowledge and attitude of medical students on the issue, a questionnaire survey study was designed and administered to 98 fourth year MBBS students in Delhi in November 2002. T he study shows that though the students posses positive attitudes for learning various aspects of torture and human rights issues, they still do not condemn custodial torture. T he majority of students have a basic knowledge about torture and are desirous of the inclusion of torture medicine in the undergraduate curriculum for further detailed knowledge.