Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir – Medical interns across Jammu and Kashmir have escalated their protest, commencing a 48-hour hunger strike to press for a significant increase in their monthly stipend. The agitation, which has been ongoing for over a week, involves interns from ten government medical colleges and two dental colleges in the Union Territory.
Demands and Background of the Protest
The protesting MBBS and BDS interns are demanding that their monthly stipend be raised from the current ₹12,300 to ₹30,000. They argue that the stipend has remained unchanged for seven years, despite their demanding work schedules which include long shifts, night duties, and significant clinical responsibilities. This continuous protest has begun to impact healthcare services in the region’s medical colleges.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that the current agitation is a result of failed talks with the health department. Interns have stated that they will not call off the strike until a formal, written government order is issued regarding the stipend enhancement. This demand comes after a government committee, formed in June 2023, recommended an increase in the stipend from the 2019 rate of ₹12,300 to ₹25,000. However, the implementation of this recommendation has been repeatedly delayed, leading to the current escalation.
Government Response and Political Support
The Health and Medical Education Minister, Sakina Itoo, has appealed to the interns to resume their duties, assuring them that their demand is under consideration and the file is with the Finance Department. However, the interns have expressed dissatisfaction with verbal assurances, emphasizing the need for a concrete, written commitment. Representatives of the All India Medical Students’ Association (AIMSA) J&K have been actively involved in the negotiations, urging the government to act swiftly and address the issue. Political figures, including PDP leader Iltija Mufti, have visited the protesting interns to express support for their cause.
The interns have also raised concerns about alleged attempts by some college authorities to pressure them into withdrawing the protest. They have called for constructive engagement and dialogue, stressing that their movement is apolitical and focused solely on their professional welfare.
The Union Territory administration has acknowledged the legitimacy of the interns’ demand. However, the process involves administrative and financial approvals, which have contributed to the delay. The recent escalation to a hunger strike signifies the interns’ resolve to continue their agitation until their demands are met with a formal government order.
The Chenab Times News Desk