Indefinite Strike by Haryana Government Doctors Enters Fourth Day
PIL Filed for Judicial Intervention
As the indefinite strike by government doctors in Haryana continues into its fourth day, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been submitted to the Punjab and Haryana High Court. This legal action seeks judicial intervention to resolve the deadlock that has significantly impacted essential healthcare services throughout the state.
Background of the Strike
The strike, initiated by the Haryana Civil Medical Services Association (HCMSA), began as a two-day protest on December 8–9. However, it escalated into an indefinite shutdown when discussions with the state government failed to produce a satisfactory outcome. Currently, over 3,000 government doctors are participating in the strike, leading to severe staff shortages in public hospitals.
Government’s Response to the Strike
In response to the ongoing strike, the Haryana government has invoked the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA), which prohibits strikes in essential services, and has announced salary deductions for the striking doctors. Despite these measures, medical professionals have persisted in their protest, further complicating the situation.
Chief Minister’s Appeal
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has urged the doctors to end their strike and resume their duties. He highlighted that the doctors have four primary demands, three of which the government has already addressed. Notifications have been issued regarding a specialized cadre for doctors and travel allowances, while the recruitment of senior medical officers has been paused. Nonetheless, the fourth demand concerning amendments to the Assured Career Progression (ACP) structure remains unresolved.
Response from HCMSA President
In response, Dr. Rajesh Khyalia, president of the HCMSA, expressed disappointment over the government’s failure to fulfill its promises made a year ago, specifically regarding the cessation of direct recruitment of senior medical officers and the implementation of a revised ACP scheme. He stated, “We request the government to fulfill its promise. But rather than doing so, it is trying to suppress our voice through ESMA or issuing letters.” Dr. Khyalia also mentioned that three doctors in Panchkula are currently on a hunger strike until their demands are met, emphasizing the association’s willingness to engage in dialogue, although no formal invitation for talks has been extended by the government.
Efforts to Mitigate Strike Impact
To mitigate the effects of the strike, the Haryana health department has deployed doctors from the National Health Mission (NHM), government medical colleges, ESIC hospitals, and AYUSH services to ensure continued healthcare delivery amid the ongoing crisis.