Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: On Wednesday, the state cabinet passed an ordinance amending the Kerala Healthcare Service Persons and Healthcare Service Institutions (Prevention of Violence and Damage to Property) Act, 2012.

The new amendment was approved to ensure more protection for healthcare personnel following the murder of house surgeon Dr. Vandana Das at Kottarakara Taluk Hospital. On May 10, Dr. Das was murdered by a man brought to the hospital for treatment by police.

According to the amendment, people who attack healthcare institutions, damage properties, or damage equipment can be imprisoned for six months to a maximum of five years. They can also be fined from Rs 50,000 to a maximum of Rs 2 lakh under the new law.

The maximum penalty for attacks against healthcare personnel is seven years in jail and a fine of up to Rs 5 lakh. The amendment also revealed that the cases filed under this Act will be investigated by a police officer of circle inspector rank or above.

Additionally, the Health Minister of State, Mrs. Veena George, stated that the ordinance will be discussed in the upcoming assembly session. She revealed that the administration is prepared to make more adjustments to the legislation if there is any such demand.

(Source:https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/thiruvananthapuram/kerala-cabinet-clears-stronger-legal-shield-for-health-workers/articleshowprint/100316422.cms?val=3728 )