Govt passes ordinance to check attacks on medical workers

The Union Government passed an ordinance, amending the existing Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, to ensure safety and security of health workers, including doctors and nurses. The decision of the cabinet in this regard was announced by Union Minister Prakash Javadekar.

New Delhi:To check unabated attacks on health workers, including doctors and nurses, the Union Government on Wednesday passed an ordinance, making such acts punishable with imprisonment from 3 months to 7 years and fine up to rupees five lakh.

The Narendra Modi government amended the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 by passing the ordinance, which would be implemented after a nod from President Ramnath Kovind.

Addressing a press conference here, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar announced the cabinet's decision to have passed the ordinance in this regard.

"Our health workers, who are engaged in crucial duty for the country, are being attacked, their property is being damaged and are facing harassment as they are suspected to be carriers of the novel coronavirus. This is a zero-tolerance for the government and we will not let this happen in a civilized society," said Javadekar.

Under the amended law, in case of injury or loss to the property, a health care professional would get compensation.

This would be applicable for all health workers, including doctors, nurses, paramedics and ASHA workers across the country, the minister said, adding that investigation for such cases would be completed be within 30 days of reporting the incident.

In case of grievous injuries, the accused can be sentenced from 6 months to 7 years and fined between rupees 1 Lakh and rupees 5 Lakh.