Controversial AIIMS bill gets presidential nod

The bill fixing the age limit of 65 years for the director, is seen as a move to ease out incumbent P Venugopal.

The controversial bill fixing the age limit of 65 years for the AIIMS director, seen as a move to ease out incumbent P Venugopal, on Friday received presidential assent.

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President Pratibha Patil signed the AIIMS (Amendment) Bill, 2007, two days after Parliament passed the measure amidst stiff opposition from BJP and AIADMK.

The bill was opposed by these parties on the ground that the government was targeting the 66-year-old eminent cardiac surgeon, who has a running battle with Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss.

Venugopal on Thursday moved the Supreme Court challenging the measure against which a section of AIIMS resident doctors supporting him went on strike.

The protest was withdrawn following tough words from Delhi High Court which ordered action against the strikers.