‘Zero Tolerance’: Violence on doctors, health workers a Non-bailable offence

Minister of Information and Broadcasting Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday, in a press conference, announced the Government has taken a decision that violence against health workers won’t be tolerated and severe punishment issued.

For this purpose, the Cabinet has approved the promulgation of Ordinance to amend the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897.

  • It will be a non-bailable offence.
  • Violence against doctors/ health workers will attract punishment of 6 months to 7 years jail.
  • Fine from Rs 2 Lakh up to 5 lakh for serious offence; Rs 50000 to 2 Lakh for non-serious offence.
  • Any damage to vehicle/property of doctors/health workers, the culprit will have to pay 2 times the cost of the damage.
  • The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called off its proposed protests scheduled on April 22 and 23 following a meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday.

    IMA has been demanding that the Centre bring a law to protect healthcare workers from rising attacks at a time when they are battling COVID-19.

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