The protest by junior doctors across Andhra Pradesh has intensified. Demanding the immediate resolution of their issues, junior doctors at Kurnool Government Hospital, along with doctors across the state, have boycotted several medical services from Monday, including emergency services, Intensive Care Units (ICUs), operation theatres and outpatient (OP) services.
Junior doctors’ representatives said they were forced to boycott duties after the government failed to respond adequately to their demands despite discussions being held since July and protests continuing for the past eight days.
The ongoing agitation is affecting several healthcare services, including maternal and child care. Hospital administrations are making alternative arrangements to ensure that patients do not face difficulties. Services are being continued with the help of senior faculty members and assistant surgeons.
Major Demands of AP Junior Doctors
30% Hike in Stipend
Junior doctors are demanding a 30% increase in their stipend, which is scheduled to be implemented from January, citing the rising cost of living and expenses across the state.
Opposition to Increase in Senior Doctors’ Retirement Age
The junior doctors have also urged the government to immediately withdraw the proposal to increase the retirement age of senior doctors from 62 to 65 years.
According to the junior doctors, the move could affect employment opportunities for postgraduate medical students.
Appointment of Assistant Professors as per NMC Rules
Another key demand is that assistant professors should be appointed strictly in accordance with the rules of the National Medical Commission (NMC). Junior doctors have opposed the appointment of candidates with non-medical degrees to such positions.
They argue that following NMC regulations would help protect employment opportunities for postgraduate medical students.
Junior Doctors Ready for Talks, Warn of Intensified Agitation
Junior doctors said they are always ready to hold discussions with the government and urged the authorities to resolve their genuine demands with a positive approach.
They warned that if the government fails to respond to their demands, they will intensify their protest further.
CPI Leaders Extend Support
Meanwhile, CPI leaders extended their support to the junior doctors’ protest. Jangala Ajay Kumar, CPI State Secretariat member and in-charge of Nellore district, along with Arigela Sai, CPI Nellore district committee secretary, and other party leaders attended the protest and expressed solidarity with the agitating junior doctors.
