The government on Wednesday has decided to bring in an Ordinance to severely punish those who are guilty of attacking doctors and Covid-19 healthcare workers. Such attacks are now a cognisable/non-bailable offence, mandating time-bound probes.

"Amendment to be made to the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 and Ordinance will be implemented. Such a crime will now be cognizable and non-bailable. An investigation will be done within 30 days. Accused can be sentenced from 3 months to 5 years and penalised from Rs 50,000 up to Rs 2 lakh," Prakash Javadekar, the Union Minister, said today. "Health workers who are trying to save the country from this epidemic are unfortunately facing attacks. No incident of violence or harassment against them will be tolerated," he added.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the Modi sarkar is "committed to protecting those who are protecting India during these challenging times. Bringing an ordinance to end violence against our doctors and health workers is a testimony of the same. This will go a long way in ensuring their safety and dignity."