Government Response and Negotiations
The state government has adopted a strict “no work, no pay” policy, withholding salaries of employees absent due to the strike. Show-cause notices and threats of dismissal have been issued to striking workers.
A state-level committee has been formed to examine and address some demands, including salary hikes and health insurance, with partial approvals underway. However, core issues like regularization remain under high-level government consideration, prolonging the stalemate.
Impact on Healthcare Services
While the strike has not completely crippled health services, hospitals report significant staff shortages and increased workloads for regular employees. Patients have faced disruptions in care, prompting concern from health officials and lawmakers alike.
The protest underscores persistent contractual employment challenges within India’s public health system, raising calls for policy reforms to stabilize and strengthen healthcare delivery in the state.