VIJAYAWADA: Dr. M Jayachandra Naidu, President of the Indian Medical Association - Andhra Pradesh (IMA-AP), has raised serious concerns about the escalating violence against doctors and its impact on the healthcare system. 
In a press conference held at IMA Hall in Vijayawada on Friday, Dr. Naidu called for urgent and stringent measures to protect medical professionals. He emphasized the increasing violence faced by doctors and healthcare workers, stressing the need for comprehensive policies and robust protective legislation. Dr. Naidu highlighted the critical role of doctors in nation-building, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, where many sacrificed their lives.
“The atmosphere of fear and mistrust in our hospitals has made it increasingly difficult for doctors to practice their profession. The 
violence against doctors and hospitals has reached epidemic proportions and is a national disgrace,” he said.
Dr. Naidu advocated for the creation of a Central law to address violence against doctors, noting that existing State legislations are insufficient. Although a bill was proposed by the Union government and made available for public comments, it has not yet been introduced in Parliament. He argued that a Central law would provide a stronger deterrent against such violence.
“Protecting healthcare professionals is not only about safeguarding individuals but also about ensuring that quality medical care is available to all,” he added.
IMA-AP General Secretary Dr. P Phanidhar supported Dr. Naidu's call for legislative action, stressing the need to shield doctors from criminal prosecution. He criticized the current situation where doctors face harassment and are forced to practice defensive medicine due to the threat of criminal charges. Dr. Phanidhar argued that professional services should be exempt from criminal prosecution in cases of medical negligence, provided there is no intent to cause harm.
“The issue of criminal liability in medical negligence cases should be considered with an emphasis on intent. Doctors should only be held accountable under civil law in the absence of mens rea, not criminal law,” he said.
The IMA-AP is urging the government to enact a Central law to address violence against doctors and amend Section 106.1 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) legislation. They also advocate for the enforcement of Section 26 in cases of alleged medical negligence, to differentiate between genuine accidents and negligence, thereby protecting doctors from unwarranted prosecution.