Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday proclaimed ex-gratia assistance of Rs 50 lakh to the kin of healthcare personnel and other staffs of support services who lose their lives combating against deadly coronavirus. They would be accorded with martyr status. They would also be provided a state funeral with state honours. This will include staffs from both public and private hospitals.
In a video message Patnaik said, “The government in convergence with Government of India initiative will confirm that Rs. 50 lakh is given for all health personnel (private and public) and members of all other support services who lose their precious lives in the fight against COVID-19”.
He added, “The State will treat them as Martyrs and provide State funeral with State Honors”
“In the absence of any cure or vaccine those fighting the Covid19 war for us, doctors and healthcare professionals are taking a huge risk by putting themselves in the front. We have a rich tradition of honoring our brave hearts who fight for the country and acknowledge their supreme sacrifice. In the same spirit we propose to recognize and honor the valiant work being done by our Covid warriors,” he said.
Moreover, a detailed scheme of awards will be instituted, recognizing their unparalleled sacrifice. These awards will be given on national days, besides the families of all government personnel (medical and others) would receive full salary till the date of retirement.
“The families of all government personnel (medical and others) will still receive full salary till the date of retirement. 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. Please remember, that any act against them is an act against the State,” said Patnaik.
The government warned against the harrasing or attacking medical personnel said that the severe action will be taken against those attacking health personnel. He said the government will invoke the provisions of the National Security Act (NAA) against the guilty for committing such criminal offense.
“I appeal to everyone that as a community we should always always be very grateful for this bold and selfless service being rendered by our doctors, other health professionals and other support services,” he added.
Further he added, “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 National Security Act. The four and half crore people of Odisha and the State stand solidly behind our COVID Warriors.”
