Belagavi, DHNS: The Karnataka Good Samaritan and Medical Professional (Protection and Regulation during Emergency situations) Bill, 2016, is likely to be tabled during the ongoing winter session.

Through this bill, the government intends to bring about a legislation to provide protection to ‘Good Samaritans’ and medical professionals from civil and criminal liabilities, by establishing supporting legal environment and sufficient resources.

Highlighting that accidental deaths are on the rise globally, the Health and Family Welfare department, which has drafted the Bill, has noted that bystanders can play a crucial role in taking the victims to the nearest hospital. However, due to likely harassment from police or legal proceedings, the onlookers do not volunteer to assist the victim. In a bid to build confidence among the public to help road accident victims, this bill has been proposed.

Severe action will be taken against doctors/hospitals who refuse treatment. The bill highlights that good samaritans will be relieved from repeated attendance in courts/police stations. In case, they are made to run about to courts, then expenses of such persons will be met through the proposed ‘Good Samaritan Fund’.