Medical interns from ten Government Medical Colleges and two Dental Colleges in Jammu and Kashmir commenced a 48-hour hunger strike on Monday, following unsuccessful negotiations with the state government. This strike comes after a week-long protest seeking an increase in their monthly stipend, highlighting frustration with the government’s handling of their demands.
Dr. Faraz, one of the protesting interns, expressed disappointment, stating, “Our strike is indefinite and will not cease until we receive an official order.” He emphasized the unnecessarily prolonged response from the government, which has delayed any official communication beyond what he deemed reasonable.
The medical interns feel compelled to escalate their efforts, as Dr. Faraz mentioned, “This hunger strike is aimed at creating sustained pressure on the government.” The interns have mobilized voluntarily, with two to three representatives from each college participating in the strike.
The frustration among the medical interns reflects deeper issues regarding governmental response times. “The recommendation for our stipend increase was made in 2023,” Dr. Faraz noted, adding that after eight days of protest, the lack of concrete action is alarming.
Interns voiced concerns about the government’s repeated requests for more time to address the stipend issue. “We have given them three years already,” lambasted another medical intern. “Verbal assurances such as ‘we will look into it in a month or two’ are no longer sufficient for us.”
Moreover, interns reported feelings of intimidation from the college administration, which they accuse of attempting to suppress their protests. Dr. Faraz stated, “The administration tries to intimidate us, but we stand firm for our legitimate rights.” He assured their resolve would not be shaken by any attempts to stifle their voices.
Dr. Musharaf, another participant in the hunger strike, remarked that while some negotiations have shown progress, he emphasized that no definitive solutions have emerged yet. “We will continue our dialogue with the government,” he shared, indicating a cautious optimism for future negotiations.
As the hunger strike commences, the medical interns remain committed to escalating their methods of protest as necessary. Dr. Musharaf mentioned, “For now, we are initiating this 48-hour hunger strike, and we will decide our next steps based on the developments.” This ongoing situation demonstrates the interns’ determination to secure better conditions and rightful recognition of their efforts as future healthcare providers in Jammu and Kashmir.
