Bhubaneswar: In a major announcement, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today said that a compensation of Rs 50 lakh would be provided to families of all doctors, health professionals and members of the other support services who lose their lives in the COVID-19 battle. The Chief Minister also assured that the State will treat them as 'martyrs' and provide state funeral with State Honours.
At a time when doctors and health care staff have been facing violence and frequent attacks at the workspace forcing the Indian Medical Association (IMA) to declare Black Day on April 23, the CM's message has been hailed as a much-needed move for these frontline COVID warriors.
In the absence of any cure or vaccine, those fighting the COVID war for us - doctors, healthcare professionals, and support services- are taking a huge risk by putting themselves in the front lines, the CM said adding that the 4.5 crore Odias stand solidly behind the warriors.
The CM also said that:
- The state will treat them as Martyrs and provide State funeral with State Honour.
- A detailed scheme of awards will be instituted recognizing their unparalleled sacrifice. These awards will be given on national days.
- The families of all government personnel (medical and others) will continue to receive full salary till the date of retirement.
This apart, Patnaik warned of action under the National Security Act (NSA) against those attacking healthcare professionals. "Please remember that any act against them is an act against the State. In case, anyone indulges in any act that will disturb or dishonour their work, very strict criminal action will be taken against them including invoking the provisions of the NSA."
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I appeal to everyone that as a community we should be very grateful for this bold and selfless service being rendered by our doctors, health professionals and other support services, Patnaik said.