Maharashtra resident doctors call indefinite strike over unmet demands

Maharashtra Resident doctors call for strike.

The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors Central (MARD) are on course to start an indefinite strike from 5pm on February 22. The decision stems from unresolved issues concerning the living and working conditions of resident doctors in the state. This marks the second such strike in 2024, with approximately 8,000 doctors participating across the state.

Despite the strike, emergency services will continue to operate to guarantee essential medical care for the public. Dr Abhijit Helge, president of MARD, shared that approximately 8,000 resident doctors throughout the state will participate in the strike, advocating for improved hostel accommodation, an increase in stipend, and the clearance of arrears.

Earlier in the month, nearly 450 resident doctors from BJ Government Medical College and Sassoon General Hospital had called for an indefinite strike, citing demands for improved accommodation, stipend increments, and clearance of arrears.

Dr Helge expressed disappointment stating that despite numerous appeals to the authorities, the concerns of resident doctors remained unaddressed. The decision to strike follows repeated instances where the authorities failed to fulfill promises made to doctors' welfare, reports news agency ANI.

Routine surgeries and procedures at Sassoon General Hospital (SGH) are expected to be affected as resident doctors from BJ Medical College join the statewide indefinite strike.