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| Strike Ends | | | The MBBS and BDS interns across Jammu and Kashmir have called off their strike and resumed duties after the government gave a written assurance that their long-pending demand for enhancement of stipend would be resolved within one month.
Medical interns calling off strike is good news for the patients as they were the worst hit. The hospitals have resumed functioning with full strength much to the respite of all.
The government has promised them that their stipend will be hiked from Rs 12,000 to Rs 30,000 and hopefully the promise will be kept. These interns work in difficult situations and they need to be given all the possible support to work with dedication.
At this crucial stage of their professional journey, interns deserve an environment in which they can concentrate on learning and serving patients without being overwhelmed by financial concerns. A reasonable stipend is therefore not simply an incentive but recognition of the responsibilities they shoulder.
At the same time, the interests of patients must remain at the centre of every such dispute. Government hospitals cater to a large section of the population, particularly those who cannot afford expensive private healthcare.
Even a temporary disruption in hospital services can cause serious inconvenience and, in some cases, put vulnerable patients at risk. The decision of the interns to resume duties has consequently come as a major relief.
Now, the responsibility lies with the government to honour its written commitment within the promised one-month timeframe. Assurances given during an agitation carry significance only when followed by timely action. The authorities should ensure that the necessary administrative and financial procedures are completed without unnecessary delay so that the interns do not have to revive their protest.
The episode also underlines the need for a permanent mechanism to address genuine concerns of medical interns, junior doctors and other frontline healthcare workers. Instead of allowing grievances to accumulate until they result in strikes, regular consultations between the government and representatives of medical institutions could help identify and resolve issues much earlier.
The interns, for their part, have demonstrated maturity by choosing to return to work after receiving the government’s assurance. Their decision is especially commendable because it puts patient care above confrontation.
Jammu and Kashmir needs a motivated and adequately supported medical workforce. Young doctors are the future backbone of the healthcare system, and investing in their welfare is ultimately an investment in public health. The government should therefore keep its word and ensure that the promised stipend enhancement becomes a reality within the stipulated period. |
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