The doctors of Rajasthan were on a strike following the heinous crime against the female resident doctor in Kolkata. The government of Rajasthan had assured the resident doctors of meeting all their demands of safety and security, following which they had ended the strike. However, with a month gone by without any meaningful action, the GBM of SMS Medical College is now presenting a decisive ultimatum to confront the administration’s indifference.
The doctors, who have been dedicatedly serving the public, are expressing their profound frustration over the government’s inaction on their essential demands, including improved security and better hospital facilities. In a statement, they issued a final 15-day warning to the state government to resolve these issues. If no tangible steps are taken by October 8, 2024, resident doctors throughout Rajasthan, including those in the Jaipur Association of Resident Doctors, will be compelled to go on an indefinite strike. Key issues raised by the resident doctors include:
1. Stipend Increase- Doctors are demanding a 30% hike in their stipends, which have not seen an increase in over 3.5 years. Current compensation is now reportedly lower than that offered in Bihar and other economically disadvantaged states, despite Rajasthan’s hospitals being recognized for their quality care.
2. Inclusion of Special Medical Officer Posts- To enhance healthcare quality and provide better employment opportunities for postgraduate doctors, the inclusion of Special Medical Officer Positions is essential.
3. Removal of Compulsory Bond Service – The compulsory bond service requirement, which penalizes doctors who cannot fulfill mandated service, is seen as a hindrance to professional growth. The resident doctors urge the government to abolish this policy, which imposes a hefty fine of Rs 25 lakh.
4. Optional HRA Deductions – Current practices enforce mandatory HRA deductions from resident doctors’ salaries, despite them residing in subpar hostel conditions.
The doctors argue that this is contrary to National Medical Commission guidelines, which recommend optional deductions.
5. Salary Inequality -The disparity in salaries between academic and non-academic Senior Residents (SRs) is another major concern, with academic SRs often earning less despite greater responsibilities.
The doctors reiterate that they previously granted the administration one month to address these pressing issues, yet the lack of action has left them with no choice but to prepare for a strike. “If our demands are not met by the deadline, the state administration will be solely responsible for the disruption in healthcare services,” they stated.
The residents remain hopeful for a resolution, emphasizing their commitment to serving the people of Rajasthan while seeking fair treatment and better working conditions.
