Karnataka has enacted a new law imposing stringent penalties for insulting medical service personnel. The Karnataka Medical Registration and Certain Other Law (Amendment) Act, 2024, effective August 16 following Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot’s assent, introduces a three-month jail term or a fine of up to ₹10,000 for such offenses. This legislative change follows nationwide outrage over the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
Under the new Act, “intentional insult” includes any act of using derogatory language, gestures, or unauthorized media related to medical staff, either directly or online. The Act covers all personnel involved in healthcare services—ranging from hospital employees to ambulance drivers—and aims to protect them from harassment.
Additionally, the Act stipulates that complaints must be investigated by officers of at least inspector rank within 60 days, with trials expedited to ensure completion within a year. If trials extend beyond this period, the court must record reasons for delays. The Act also mandates the installation of security measures, such as CCTV, and outlines penalties for quackery, imposing fines up to ₹10,000 for first-time offenders and ₹1 lakh for repeat violations.
Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao will convene a meeting on August 20 to discuss further safety measures for medical professionals.
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