There’s no denying the fact that doctors, nurses, hospital staff and sanitation workers are the superheroes amidst the coronavirus pandemic. They are working tirelessly to contain the disease, treating patients without concern for their own safety and staying away from their families as a precautionary measure.
The Economic Times reports that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal lauded their contribution as he spoke with them over video call and also noted their feedback that will help the government fight COVID-19.
Interacted with Delhi govt doctors and paramedic staff on COVID-19 duty over video conference. I salute their courage and dedication. Have assured them full govt support. They had some excellent suggestions which we will implement immediately pic.twitter.com/tQ2jM2wzLs
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) April 1, 2020
According to Hindustan Times, he announced that if any medical or sanitation worker lost their life during this time of crisis, their kin will be taken care of financially.
Every precaution will be taken to protect our medical staff dealing with #COVID19 patients but despite that if anything untoward happens to them, we will take care of their families https://t.co/aRvOWJzS5J
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) April 1, 2020
NDTV quoted him saying,
“During a war, a soldier protects his country, risks his life…. our whole nation is indebted to them. Today, the job that you guys (health workers) are doing is no less than that of a soldier. You are risking your life to save people of this country. Delhi government had earlier announced that if any soldier dies while protecting the country, his family will be given Rs 1 crore. Today, as a mark of respect, I want to announce that if unfortunately, any health worker – a sanitation worker, doctor or nurse – is martyred while serving COVID-19 patients, their families will be given Rs 1 crore. Whether they are from the private or government sector… it doesn’t matter.”
Earlier, the Delhi government had arranged for the doctors of Lok Nayak Hospital and GB Pant Hospital to stay in Hotel Lalit to protect their families. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has also announced Rs.50 lakh per person insurance cover for healthcare and ASHA workers.
The capital has confirmed 120 cases including 3 doctors testing positive. We wish them a speedy recovery.