Maharashtra Association Of Resident Doctors (MARD) will go on an indefinite strike from today, February 22, 5 pm. They demand better hostel accommodation, a hike in stipend, and clearance of arrears. Dr. Abhijit Helge, MARD President, said that despite the distressing situation of doctors, the Central MARD had kept our faith in the government's words and called off our strike multiple times in the past. The services at the hospital will be affected due to this indefinite strike of resident doctors.
Pan-Maharashtra Indefinite Strike Call:
In their letter to the authorities, the MARD alleged that they had repeatedly called off our strike in the past, believing the administration when it said it would fulfill their demands. The authority was always given the benefit of the doubt, and they trusted them to act appropriately and promptly to guarantee the welfare of resident doctors despite their unpleasant circumstances.
Further announcing their decision, they wrote in the letter that despite their several requests, it appears that their heartfelt concerns have gone unanswered. The Representative Body of the Resident Doctors is forced to launch an indefinite nationwide strike because the harsh disdain for the resident doctors' justifiable requests has driven us to the breaking point.
Emergency Medical Services Will Be Available:
The resident doctor’s association made it very clear that during their strike they would be available for any medical emergencies. They said that emergency services will remain operational to ensure the provision of essential medical care is available to all.
Dr. Abhijit Helge said that around 8,000 doctors across Maharashtra will be on indefinite strike from February 22.
SGH Hospital Services Affected:
Regular surgeries and procedures at Sassoon General Hospital (SGH) are certain to be disrupted as resident doctors of BJ Medical College will join the statewide indefinite strike. Over 500 surgeries are performed daily at SGH. The hospital treats between 2,500 and 3,000 patients on an outpatient department (OPD) basis. Since the strike starts on Thursday evening and surgeries will be performed in the morning, all routine surgeries at the hospital after lunch will be suspended.
The SGH administration has mandated that all department heads, instructors, doctors, and other personnel on leave promptly return to work. Academics and medical professionals have been told not to take any time off during the walkout.
To prevent any problems with law and order during the strike, the police have been advised to take preemptive action. Health programs and scheduled procedures have been rescheduled. Department heads have been instructed to release patients who are ready for discharge as soon as possible.
In 2024, this will be the second strike of this kind by resident doctors. Regretfully, despite positive interactions with the authorities and their assurances on February 7, the promises made to address the legitimate concerns of the resident doctors remain unfulfilled even after two weeks, said the protesting doctors.
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