States told to take stern action against health staff attacks

The Centre has asked the states for strict implementation of amended Epidemic Disease Act against those engaged in physical violence against the healthcare workers.

The amended Act states that “whoever commits or abets the commission of an act of violence against healthcare service personnel, or causes damage or loss to any property shall be punished with imprisonment and with fine”. Under the Act such offences are cognizable and non bailable.

In a letter written to health secretaries to all the states and UTs, the health ministry has asked to undertake detailed review and ensure that prompt action is taken for healthcare workers safety and wellbeing, after certain reports suggested incidents of physical violence against them.


The incidents of violence-it said-have particularly come from Assam, West Bengal and Karnataka.

“Such incidents impact the morale of our healthcare workforce who have shown exemplary commitment against all odds in Covid-19 management, '' said the letter.

Calling healthcare workers as the “most crucial” resources who are undertaking the battle of Covid-19 management, the letter written by Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary in the health ministry said that the government has taken a number of initiatives for ensuring safety and security of healthcare workers.

On April 22, 2020 the ministry issued an ordinance to duly amending the Epidemic Diseases Act 1897 providing protection to health care personnel and their property against violation during epidemics.