[Watch] Health Personnel Who Succumb To Corona To Be Treated As Martyrs: Odisha CM

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday announced Rs 50 lakh ex-gratia for healthcare personnel, who succumb in the fight against coronavirus.

“The state government in convergence with Government of India initiative will ensure that Rs 50 lakh is given for these health personnel (private and public) and members of all other support services,” the CM said.

The State will treat them as martyrs and they will be provided State funeral with full honours, he added.

“This war is being fought by our doctors and healthcare professionals in the front lines, assisted by a huge army of support services. In the absence of any cure or vaccine those fighting the COVID war for us, are taking a huge risk by putting themselves in the front,” he said.

The CM further said that a detailed scheme of awards will be instituted recognizing their unparalleled sacrifice. These awards will be given on national days, he added.

“The families of all government personnel (medical and others) will continue to 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,” he added.

Naveen said very strict criminal action will be taken against those disturbing or dishonouring their act, which would include invoking the provisions of the National Security Act.