‘Neuro Justice Trilogy’ proposes function-based approach to disability assessment in accident cases

Overview The Neuro Justice Trilogy and the Neuro Justice Framework Handbook were released at the NIMHANS Convention Centre on December 25, 2025 . These publications propose a significant shift in how courts assess disability and compensation in motor accident cases, advocating for a function-based understanding of disability rather than a symptom-based one. Key Developments Authors and Core Argument Authored by Sharan Srinivasan , a functional neurosurgeon, and Prathiba Sharan , a neurorehabilitation expert, the books argue for a transition from assessing injury based on symptoms to understanding how neurological injuries affect a person's ability to live, work, and participate in society. This approach emphasizes the functional impact of injuries. Judicial Endorsements Supreme Court Judge Aravind Kumar , who released the books, highlighted the meaningful intersection of law, neuroscience, and ethics. He emphasized the growing importance of interdisciplinary approaches in shaping future justice systems. Former Supreme Court Judge R.V. Raveendran , noted for his landmark judgments in motor vehicle accident cases, stated that the trilogy provides judges with a clearer roadmap to deal with complex neurological disabilities that are often inadequately captured by conventional medical certificates. Government Perspective Minister for Health Dinesh Gundu Rao emphasized that the framework has relevance beyond courts, particularly for public health and rehabilitation. He noted that integrating medical science with governance is essential to ensure fair outcomes for accident victims and their families. Personal Testimony Deputy Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly Rudrappa Lamani , who recently recovered from brain and spinal injuries suffered in a road accident, spoke about the lack of awareness around neurorehabilitation services. He stressed the need for affordable, multidisciplinary rehabilitation centers in every district, noting that many patients and families remain unaware of facilities that could aid recovery. The Genesis of Neuro Justice Dr. Srinivasan explained that the idea of ‘Neuro Justice’ emerged from years of treating trauma patients who survived injuries but struggled to secure fair compensation because the functional impact of brain injuries was poorly understood in legal settings. Addressing Invisible Disabilities Dr. Sharan highlighted the challenge of ‘invisible disabilities’ such as memory loss, behavioral changes, and impaired decision-making, which often go uncompensated despite severely affecting quality of life. Neuro Justice Framework (NJF) 1.0 A key feature of the launch was the introduction of the Neuro Justice Framework (NJF) version 1.0 , a structured model to assess functional disability. The framework incorporates global disability classifications and Indian legal provisions to help courts better evaluate loss of function, rehabilitation potential, and fair compensation. Broader Participation The event was attended by Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh and several senior neurologists and rehabilitation experts. Experts from neuroscience and disability advocacy also shared perspectives, including Paralympian K.Y. Venkatesh , who spoke about the importance of restoring dignity and participation after injury. Addressing Case Backlog Published in public interest by the Swasthya Aarogya Foundation Trust , the trilogy seeks to address delays and inconsistencies in motor accident compensation cases. The authors noted that with nearly nine lakh such claims pending nationwide, a function-based approach could help courts deliver more timely and equitable justice. UPSC Relevance This initiative is relevant to GS2 (Social Justice) , GS3 (Health) , and GS4 (Ethics) . It highlights the importance of integrating medical science with legal and ethical frameworks to ensure fair outcomes for vulnerable populations. The focus on functional disability assessment and neurorehabilitation aligns with the UPSC syllabus on social justice and healthcare. Important Facts The Neuro Justice Trilogy and Neuro Justice Framework Handbook advocate for a function-based approach to disability assessment. The books were authored by Sharan Srinivasan and Prathiba Sharan . The Neuro Justice Framework (NJF) version 1.0 is a structured model to assess functional disability. There are nearly nine lakh motor accident compensation claims pending nationwide. The Swasthya Aarogya Foundation Trust published the trilogy in the public interest.