Mumbai docs welcome Mah cabinet's approval of an ordinance

City doctors on Thursday welcomed the Maharashtra government's approval of an ordinance prohibiting attacks on doctors and medicare services.

Thanking the Chief Minister, the doctors from various medical associations said, this ordinance was due for a long time. It also approves a hefty fine of Rs 50,000 and/or three year jail term for offenders.

"We are happy that the government has taken a positive step towards protection of doctors and given a chance for the people to express their grievances against medical fraternity," the doctors said.

The State government has also provided a mechanism for the patients to vent their grievances against the medical and paramedical fraternity and would also set up a special tribunal for the purpose, Chief Minister Ashok Chavan announced yesterday here.

The offenders have to pay Rs 50,000 or face imprisonment of three years or both based on the assessment of the court concerned - pay double in compensation for the damage done, Chavan said. The ordinance will come to effect as soon as the Governor signs it.