Stricter punishments for attacking medics

NEW DELHI : The Rajya Sabha on Saturday passed the Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Bill, 2020, which provides for up to seven years of imprisonment to those convicted of attacking doctors and healthcare workers during an epidemic.

The Bill, which was introduced by health minister Harsh Vardhan in the Upper House, was supported by parties across lines. The Act will replace an ordinance issued on April 22.

Under the Act, the commission or abetment of violence will be punishable with imprisonment for a term of three months to five years, and with a fine of ₹50,000 to ₹2,00,000. In cases of causing grievous hurt, the imprisonment shall be for a term of six months to seven years, with fines ranging from ₹1,00,000 to ₹5,00,000.

Vardhan explained that the ordinance was put in place as incidents of harassment and violence against health workers were rising due to a lack of awareness about coronavirus.

Binoy Viswam of the Communist Party of India (CPI), who moved a statutory resolution on the Bill, said it did not address the issue of violence on health professionals within hospitals.

Congress’ Anand Sharma said there is a need to expand the provision to protect police and personnel of various other services engaged in providing relief.

Replying to the points raised during the discussion, Vardhan said issues related to biological emergencies are also covered under the National Disaster Management Act. On overcharging by private hospitals, he said the Central government has issued guidelines to states in this regard. “We have tried to rationalise these prices.”