SUBHASH MISHRA
Ranchi, Jan 31: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) Jharkhand chapter has expressed strong resentment over the delay in payment of compensation to doctors who died while treating patients during the Covid-19 pandemic, saying families of most victims are still waiting for relief despite court directions.
State IMA coordinator Dr Ajay Kumar Singh said the medical fraternity is “sad and aggrieved” over the continued non-payment of compensation to bereaved families.
He alleged that while most states have cleared compensation for Covid martyr doctors, Jharkhand has so far paid only one affected family.
Only One Family Paid So Far: IMA
According to IMA state vice-president Dr Ravi Shankar Das, more than two dozen doctors in Jharkhand died while treating Covid patients, with around a dozen from Ranchi alone. However, compensation has reportedly been paid only to Dr Binod Kumar of Ranchi.
IMA leaders said a fresh verified list of deceased doctors is being prepared to take up the matter again with the state government.
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Issue Raised in State Executive Meeting
Officials said the matter was discussed at the state executive committee meeting held in Ranchi on January 18, where it was decided to send a renewed reminder to the government seeking immediate release of compensation.
IMA representatives warned that the government’s response has caused deep disappointment within the medical community and could affect morale in future public health emergencies.
Covid Martyrs Day Observed in Deoghar
Meanwhile, a condolence programme was held in Deoghar on January 30 to mark Covid Martyrs Day and pay tribute to doctors and healthcare workers who lost their lives during the pandemic.
IMA national vice-president (headquarters) Dr D. Tiwari paid homage to the deceased doctors and said their sacrifice remains a lasting inspiration for the nation. IMA sources said this was the first formal Covid Martyrs Day observance by the body in four years.