New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced that the state government is considering the introduction of a legislation to protect doctors from violence.
In her address at the Annual Conference of the Delhi State Medical Association, where she was the Chief Guest, CM Atishi reiterated the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government’s unwavering support for healthcare professionals. She highlighted the Rs. 1 crore honorarium provided to Covid warriors, including doctors, nurses, and blood bank staff, both from government and private hospitals.
“At the AAP government, we have always supported Delhi’s doctors, continue to do so, and will stand with them in the future. If needed, the government will introduce a Doctors Protection Act to prevent violence against healthcare professionals and take other necessary actions,” said CM Atishi in her statement.
She emphasized that the Delhi government does not differentiate between healthcare workers in the public or private sector. Regarding incidents of violence against doctors, CM Atishi reassured the Delhi Medical Association and the medical community that the government would take all required measures to protect them. “This is my commitment to all of you,” she added.
Recalling the sacrifices made during the Covid crisis, she noted that both public and private sector doctors risked their lives for patient care. She acknowledged that the government had provided the Rs. 1 crore honorarium to all Covid warriors, including those from private hospitals and nursing homes. “Whenever our government has formulated policies for doctors, we have included both government and private sector professionals without any discrimination,” CM Atishi emphasized.
The Chief Minister also reiterated the AAP government’s commitment to improving education and healthcare services in Delhi. “Education and health are our top priorities. We are fully committed to providing quality education and healthcare facilities to the people of Delhi,” she said.
Atishi recognized the critical role of doctors, not only in providing medical care but also in offering emotional support to patients and their families during difficult times. “Health has always been a major priority for the Delhi government because education and health are not just government sectors, but investments in the future of our country,” she added. She highlighted various initiatives, including Mohalla Clinics, upgraded government hospital facilities, and the reduction of CAT ambulance response times from 55 minutes to just 15 minutes.
