Speaking after inaugurating Mental Health Week at SNR Hospital in the City on Saturday, he said that a law has been enacted in 1987 itself forbidding referring mentally-challenged persons as unsound.
“No person can be termed of unsound mind at one go. Two psychiatrists must certify before terming a person as of unsound mind. Hence people should exercise caution before branding any person as of unsound mind,” the judge said. He condemned the prevailing practice of treating mentally-challenged persons with contempt.
Psychiatrist Savita spoke on mental health in women while Dr Sunildutt Chavan spoke on mental health and blind beliefs, later.
In-charge District Surgeon Dr Shanmugam, District Health Officer Dr N Ramesh Babu, Judge B N Lavanyalatha were also present on the occasion.
Published 11 October 2009, 18:25 IST