On July 15th, government doctors in Haryana staged a two-hour strike to demand the formation of a specialist cadre for doctors and a career progression scheme that ensures parity with central government doctors. The strike, which took place from 9 AM to 11 AM, significantly impacted outpatient department (OPD) services across the state’s government healthcare institutions.
The Catalyst for the Strike
The strike was organized by the Haryana Civil Medical Services Association (HCMS), a body representing government doctors in Haryana. The association has long been advocating for several key demands:
- Formation of a Specialist Cadre: Doctors are pushing for the establishment of a dedicated specialist cadre to recognize and streamline their expertise.
- Career Progression Scheme: There is a call for a dynamic career progression scheme to ensure that state doctors receive career advancement opportunities comparable to their counterparts in central government positions.
- No Direct Recruitment of Senior Medical Officers (SMOs): The HCMS opposes direct recruitment of SMOs, arguing that it stymies the growth of medical officers who have been serving for decades.
- Reduction in Bond Amount for Postgraduate Courses: Currently, doctors are required to submit two bonds of Rs 1 crore each for postgraduate courses, which the HCMS deems excessively high.
Long-Standing Demands and Frustration
The HCMS President, Dr. Rajesh Khyalia, expressed frustration over the long-standing nature of these demands. He noted that six months ago, these demands were agreed upon by the then health minister of the state, yet no action has been taken since. This inaction has forced doctors, who were once hailed as “Corona warriors” during the COVID-19 pandemic, to resort to striking to have their voices heard.
Impact on Healthcare Services
The strike disrupted OPD services across the state, highlighting the crucial role that these doctors play in the healthcare system. While the strike was limited to two hours, the symbolic act underscored the depth of the issues faced by healthcare professionals in Haryana.
The Call for Change
Dr. Khyalia emphasized that during the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors worked tirelessly and many lost their lives to the virus. Despite their unwavering dedication and sacrifices, they now find themselves compelled to protest for legitimate and long-overdue demands. The formation of a specialist cadre, fair career progression, and the abolition of direct SMO recruitment are not just demands but essential steps to ensure a fair and functional healthcare system.
The Road Ahead
The HCMS has made it clear that the strike was a necessary step to draw attention to their cause. The association had informed health department officials and the government about the planned OPD closure well in advance. As the healthcare sector continues to evolve, the state government must address these demands promptly to prevent further disruptions and ensure that doctors receive the respect and support they deserve.
In conclusion, the two-hour strike by Haryana’s government doctors is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by healthcare professionals. It calls for immediate attention and action from the authorities to create a more equitable and supportive environment for those who dedicate their lives to saving others. As the state navigates these demands, the hope is that constructive dialogue and decisive action will pave the way for a more robust and fair healthcare system.
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