Doctors at Government hospitals are observing black ribbon protests across the State. They have warned that if the Government continues to ignore demands of them, faculty and junior doctors at medical colleges, then a widespread strike is anticipated on the February 24 and 25. Rakesh Malviya, the chief convenor of the Chikitsak Mahasangh, a doctors’ federation, expressed the disappoint saying, “Our demands such as the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission benefits have been repeatedly overlooked.”

 

The decision regarding the protest duration whether it will last for merely an hour or extend over two days, will be finalised in an upcoming meeting. As of now a half-an-hour symbolic protest is being carried out across all the State-run hospitals, medical colleges, and healthcare centers. The core issues revolve around financial compensation.

 

The association highlights that each doctor experiences a monthly salary deficit of Rs 40,000-Rs 45,000 due to the delayed implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission. Additionally, the doctors are demanding implementation of the Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP) and the non-practicing allowance (NPA), which have been approved by the state cabinet but not yet enforced. There are 20,000 doctors in all categories in various hospitals, health centers and medical colleges in Madhya Pradesh. Dr Malviya emphasised the urgent need to do away with the substandard medicines and supplies from Government hospitals, urging swift legal actions against the suppliers. In addition, they demand minimal administrative interference in their practice.

 

A symbolic protest, ‘Amanak Dawaon Ki Holi’ was observed on Friday, where substandard medicines were burnt across the State symbolically. Other pressing demands include the withdrawal of the Government’s proposal to privatise district hospitals, enhanced safety measures for female doctors, the immediate formation of a high-level committee in line with High Court guidelines, and substantial improvements in public healthcare facilities. Various organisations including the Junior Doctors Association, Medical Officers Association, ESI Doctors Association, and others have shown solidarity to this movement. Notably, on these days Global Investors Summit will be held in the State capital.