Bengaluru: Karnataka Government Doctors Threaten Strike Over Unresolved Issues

Long-Pending Demands and Strike Warning

Government doctors in Karnataka have issued a warning about a potential strike if their long-standing demands are not addressed within the next 21 days. The Karnataka Medical Officers’ Association has highlighted several issues, including a delayed seniority list, stalled promotions, cancellation of higher education funding, and irregular supply of medicines.

Health and Family Welfare Department Notification

In a formal communication to the Health and Family Welfare Department, the association expressed frustration over the unresolved issues that have persisted for years despite numerous appeals to the government. They urged immediate action to rectify the situation.

Seniority List Concerns

The association emphasized that, according to government regulations, the seniority list for officers and doctors should be compiled annually in December. However, they claim that this list has not been updated for over 13 years. This delay has resulted in many eligible doctors missing out on promotions, with some even retiring without receiving due recognition.

Discontent Over Recent Government Orders

Recent government orders have also sparked dissatisfaction among the doctors. These include the cancellation of funding for higher education opportunities for Health Department doctors, the removal of obstetrics and gynaecology specialists from Community Health Centres (CHCs), and restrictions against private in-patient practice. In contrast, doctors in the ESI and Medical Education Departments continue to receive full financial support for higher studies.

Impact on Maternal Health Services

The association has raised concerns regarding the government’s decision to replace gynaecologists at smaller hospitals to lower the Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR). They argue that this move could negatively impact pregnant women in rural areas and may, in fact, lead to an increase in MMR.

Medicine Supply Issues

Another significant issue highlighted by the association is the lack of consistent medicine supplies from the government. Despite repeated requests, this problem remains unresolved, adversely affecting patient care.

Strike Preparedness and Deadline

With a 21-day deadline set for the government to respond to their demands, the association has made it clear that failure to address these issues may lead to a statewide strike by government medical officers.