Dr Ranjith Reddy swore protection for Vets against violence.

Pashu Sandesh, 28th April 2020

Dr Ranjith Reddy, a Veterinary Doctor by profession and presently the member of Parliament from Chevella Loksabha constituency from Telangana, in a video message, has sworn the protection for the Vets. In his message, Dr Reddy assured the Vets that, he would request the Government of India to include the clause for the protection of Vets in the Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020, aimed at protecting healthcare professionals against violence during health crises. Dr Reddy assured the Vets that if the clause for the protection of Vets is not included in the ordinance then he would make sure the inclusion at the time of the presentation of this bill in the Parliament.

Amid the ongoing COVID 19 crises, the country has witnessed great scenes of both Empathy and aggression against Doctors, Nurses, Paramedics and Police. Out of sheer ignorance or reasons unknown, there have been incidences of violence against the very team that has been trying to protect and contain the deadly infection. The medical fraternity has responded with alarm against such incidences and warned the Government of the counter-response with all means necessary. Government sensing the urgent need for curbing the violence against COVID warriors has decided to introduce an ordinance. The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020, aimed at protecting healthcare professionals against violence during health crises has the following provisions 

• Acts of violence shall be punished with imprisonment of 3 months to 5 years and a fine of ₹ ₹20,000 to 50,000.
• In case of grievous injury, imprisonment term can be for up to 7 years, with a fine of ₹1,00,000 to ₹5,00,000

Dr Ranith Reddy also extended the best wishes to the Vets on the World Veterinary Day and thanked the Society for appreciating the role performed by the Veterinarians in the treatment of Animals, Pets and Birds during this unprecedented CORONA crises.