'Government officials want security from public assaults'

Karnataka State Government Workers Association President George Pinto has given an ultimatum of three days to the government to file criminal case against those who tried to assault the government officials who visited the venue, during the protest followed by two deaths after the free health check-up camp held under Vajpayee Arogyashree scheme at Panaje in Puttur, recently.

Briefing reporters, on Thursday, he said that Suvarna Arogya Trust has the responsibility to implement the project and treatment is being given by private hospitals.

Increasing incidents

The government officials went to the venue as per the order of the Minister. These kind of incidents are increasing in Bantwal, Puttur and Ullal area. Employees are working with a black badge from Wednesday as a mark of protest. “We have sent a memorandum to the CM and the Home Minister. They have to assure security for us,” he said. District Health Officer Dr Ramakrishna Rao said that treatment is being given to seven diseases under Vajpayee Arogyashree scheme. From last April 15, more 2,000 have got the benefit.

Panaje incident

About Panaje incident, he said that a young girl and an elderly who were referred to the Omega Hospital for further treatment died.However, there are other forums to solve the issues without assaulting officials, he said.

Taluk Health Officer Dr Naveenchandra Kulal and others were present.