Today I introduced The Healthcare Personnel and Healthcare Institutions (Prohibition of Violence and Damage to Property) Bill, 2023 in the LokSabha.
On May 10, 2023, Dr Vandana Das, a young doctor driven by a commitment to serve humanity, tragically lost her life at the hands of a patient she was caring for in the emergency room. While recognising that nothing would bring back their only child, I had pledged to her parents that her death would not be in vain. She is not alone: It is currently estimated that 75% of doctors face physical &verbal abuse during their service. No doctor should have to fear for their safety while fulfilling their duty.
As promised, I have thus moved a private member’s bill in Parliament to protect medical personnel. It makes acts of violence against healthcare personnel, including paramedical students &workers, administrative staff & ASHA workers, a cognisable and non-bailable offence. It requires speedy investigation and sentencing within a specified time frame & the establishment of designated special courts in every district.
If passed, my Bill should be known as the Vandana Das Act, in honour of the brave young medical martyr.
@mansukhmandviya