Medical interns from 10 Government Medical Colleges and two Dental Colleges in Jammu and Kashmir initiated a 48-hour hunger strike on Monday. This move follows unsuccessful negotiations with the state government regarding a hike in their monthly stipend, which they demand urgently. The interns have been protesting for over a week, seeking an enhanced stipend that reflects their critical role in the healthcare system.
Dr. Faraz, a protesting medical intern, emphasized the urgency of their demands. “Our strike is indefinite. It will not stop until we receive an official order,” he stated, reflecting the frustration of many interns who feel their concerns have been sidelined.
The interns, who have taken to fasting as a drastic measure, expressed their determination to create sustained pressure on the government. “No one forced them. Two to three students from each college have come forward to sit on a hunger strike,” Dr. Faraz clarified, underlining that this choice stems from their deep-seated dissatisfaction.
Despite previous discussions, the interns argue that the government has consistently postponed action. “The recommendation was made in 2023. Even if we assume they only started taking the issue seriously after the strike began, eight days have passed, and there is still no order,” he continued, indicating a lack of urgency from officials.
Compounded with this frustration, the interns criticized the attitude of college administrations. “It is unacceptable. We are protesting for our legitimate rights. We are not going to be intimidated if the college administration tries to silence us through unfair means,” Dr. Faraz asserted, highlighting reports of intimidation and threats faced by the interns during this protest.
Another intern, Dr. Musharaf, provided a tempered perspective amid the turmoil. While acknowledging some positive discussions with the government, he reaffirmed that no conclusive solution has emerged yet. “Our subsequent dialogue will continue moving forward, so we will not say that it has entirely failed,” he commented, hinting at a glimmer of hope for resolution.
Dr. Musharaf explained, “For now, we are starting a 48-hour hunger strike, and subsequently we will plan our course of action as things progress.” This underscores the interns’ commitment to their cause, emphasizing that the hunger strike is only the latest phase in their struggle for fair remuneration.
As the hunger strike unfolds, the focus now shifts to the government’s response. Will they take the demands of the interns seriously, or will this protest escalate? Medical interns in Jammu and Kashmir remain firm in their stance, demanding respect for their contributions to healthcare and their rights as students.
