Dr Fauzia Khan has introduced the Central Protection of Healthcare Workers and Medical Establishments from Violence Act, 2025 in Parliament. The Bill aims to prohibit violence against healthcare workers and damage to medical establishments across India. Any person who commits, abets or incites violence or property damage can face imprisonment from six months up to five years and a fine between ₹50,000 and ₹5 lakh. If grievous hurt is caused to a healthcare worker, punishment increases to imprisonment from three to ten years with a fine between ₹2 lakh and ₹10 lakh. All offences under the Act are cognizable and non-bailable. In addition to criminal punishment, the offender must pay compensation, including double the fair market value of damaged property, ₹1 lakh for causing hurt, and ₹5 lakh for causing grievous hurt, as decided by the court. Failure to pay compensation allows recovery as arrears of land revenue. The Bill also places responsibility on medical establishments to ensure safety through CCTV surveillance, trained security personnel, quick response teams, de-escalation training for staff, secure transport for night shifts, access control, visitor management systems, emergency response protocols, and special safety measures for female and young healthcare workers.
