Attacking doctors, medical staff punishable with up to 7 years prison, Cabinet clears Ordinance
Attacking doctors and paramedic staff would be considered a cognizable, non-bailable offence now onwards, as the Union Cabinet cleared an ordinance on Wednesday. The Ordinance which has amended the Epidemic Diseases Act states that anybody who would be involved in a violent act against medical staff would face up to seven years in prison and fine of up to Rs 5 lakhs.
As per the act, if violators damage medical property, they will have to pay double the cost of the same.
The move comes as the medical fraternity was hell bent on such a demand in the wake of increasing misbehaving case against medical staff. Amidst the COVID-19 outbreak, health workers are having tough times and the act will help to perform their duty in a fearless manner.
“The central government has brought an ordinance to end violence against health workers. It carries imprisonment from 6 months to 7 years if anyone is found guilty,” Union minister Prakash Javadekar was quoted saying.
The move comes as medical fraternity was hell bent on such a demand in the wake of increasing misbehaving case against medical staff. Amidst COVID-19 outbreak, health workers are having tough time and the act will help to perform their duty in fearless manner.
“Health workers who are trying to save the country from this epidemic are unfortunately facing attacks. No incident of violence or harassment, against them will be tolerated. An ordinance has been brought in, it’ll be implemented after President’s sanction,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called off its proposed ‘White alert’ and ‘Black day’ protests on April 22 and 23 following a meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah through video conference on Wednesday.
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