Maharashtra’s Resident Doctors Unleash Indefinite Strike from February 7
Nagpur: In a bold move, resident doctors affiliated with government medical college hospitals (GMCHs) throughout Maharashtra have declared an indefinite strike, set to commence at 5 pm on February 7. Their (Government Medical College Nagpur | GMCH) decision stems from grievances related to prolonged non-payment of stipends, irregular disbursements, and what they describe as the overall mistreatment of doctors within the healthcare system.
The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) spearheaded the strike initiative, underscoring the pivotal role these resident doctors play in the delivery of healthcare services. The central committee of MARD issued a press note on Monday, expressing dismay at the alleged cruelty directed towards resident doctors, who serve as the first line of defense in tertiary healthcare institutes.
The Struggle Unveiled
Central MARD President, Dr. Abhijit Helge, revealed details of a recent meeting with Hasan Mushriff, the Minister of Medical Education and Drugs Department (MEDD), on February 5. Despite acknowledging the minister’s positive response, Dr. Helge conveyed his disappointment at the absence of a concrete resolution. Dr. Helge emphasized, “Despite our explanations, neither a solution nor a precise timeline was provided for our issues to be resolved. Hence, we have unanimously decided to initiate a pan Maharashtra indefinite strike.”
Unmet Promises and Growing Frustration
MARD highlighted that similar assurances were given by the government in January 2023, following which the doctors called off a strike. “393 days have elapsed since those assurances, and the situation has only worsened,” lamented the doctors. Expressing regret for potential disruptions in patient care during the strike, MARD laid the blame squarely on the government, asserting that the strike was a last resort after multiple unsuccessful attempts at dialogue.
Assurances Amidst Uncertainty
Despite the strike, MARD assured the public that emergency services would continue uninterrupted. However, they urged the Maharashtra government to promptly address their concerns, aiming to avert further disruptions in healthcare delivery across the state.
In a joint statement, MARD emphasized their stance as responsible citizens and doctors. They expressed deep regret for the potential impact on patient care during the strike but insisted that the government’s repeated failure to address their grievances left them with no alternative.
The Call for Action
As the strike looms, all eyes are on the Maharashtra government to engage in meaningful dialogue and find a resolution that satisfies the concerns of resident doctors. The healthcare landscape in the state hangs in the balance, awaiting a swift and amicable resolution to avert potential chaos in medical services.
