Coronavirus: "Zero Tolerance": Centre Brings Tough Law On Attacks On Health Workers

There have been a number of attacks on healthcare workers across the country

With attacks increasing on doctors amid the coronavirus pandemic, the government has brought in an ordinance to protect healthcare workers. Attacks on health care workers have been made a non-bailable offence and will carry an imprisonment from six months to seven years, union minister Prakash Javadekar announced.

"While people across the nation salute the health workers and those in the field helping battle COVID-19, but there are few who are attacking them, thinking they are spreading the virus. There will be absolutely no tolerance to attacks on doctors and healthcare professionals," Mr Javadekar said after the cabinet meeting.

The union minister said they have amended the Epidemic Act - a 120 year old law - to now ensure that any attack on doctors or health workers will be liable to a penalty of anywhere between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 5 lakh.

"This law will protect doctors, nurses, health workers, attendants and also Aasha workers. Healthcare professionals will also be extended insurance cover," he said.

The ordinance has been sent to the President. Once approved, it will take effect immediately.