KGMCTA Announces Complete Strike on November 13
Background of the Strike
Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Government Medical College Teachers’ Association (KGMCTA) has declared a complete strike set for November 13. This action will proceed until the state government provides formal orders or written assurances regarding its primary demands. This decision follows unproductive discussions with Health Minister Veena George.
Allegations Against the Finance Department
The association has expressed concerns that the Finance Department’s reluctance to address even legitimate issues is hindering a resolution. KGMCTA representatives, led by state President Dr. Rosnara Begum, engaged in talks with the Minister alongside senior health officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary for Health, the Director of Medical Education, and the Joint Director of Medical Education, as reported by news agency IANS.
Key Issues Raised in Discussions
During the meeting, the KGMCTA highlighted that discrepancies in the pay scale for entry-level Assistant Professors have resulted in a decrease in the number of young doctors entering medical colleges. This decline is adversely affecting both patient care and academic performance.
The Minister indicated that the necessary documentation to rectify the pay anomaly would be forwarded to the Finance Department with a positive recommendation, though she did not provide any guarantees regarding its approval.
Pending Pay Revision Arrears
The KGMCTA also brought to the forefront the issue of outstanding pay revision arrears for medical college doctors who have worked tirelessly during the Nipah and Covid-19 outbreaks. The association noted, “While all other government employees have received their arrears in full, doctors who risked their lives for the state’s health system have been denied what is rightfully theirs.” They criticized the Finance Department’s position as “grossly unfair,” according to IANS.
Additional Demands and Concerns
Furthermore, the association is advocating for the establishment of additional teaching positions in the newly formed Kasaragod and Wayanad medical colleges, citing the recent approval of 44 senior posts as insufficient. The Health Minister assured that more proposals would be sent to the Finance Department for review.
The KGMCTA also expressed concerns about the delays in finalizing the Hospital Protection Act rules and discussed anomalies related to the pension ceiling. They urged the Health Minister to arrange a joint meeting with the Finance Minister to address these issues comprehensively.
Conclusion of the Meeting
Dr. Rosnara Begum and Secretary Dr. C.S. Aravind emphasized, “Until written assurances or orders are issued, our protest will continue.”