Chandigarh: Over 2,500 government doctors in Punjab, under the Punjab Civil Medical Services (PCMS) Association, have declared an indefinite strike starting January 20, citing the state government’s failure to fulfill its promises.
The doctors are demanding:
- Adequate Security: Implementation of Supreme Court-mandated security measures at all 24×7 healthcare centers to ensure a safe working environment for healthcare professionals.
- Reinstatement of Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP): Doctors seek the reintroduction of DACP in the same format as it was prior to July 1, 2022.
- Recruitment: Addressing acute shortages, including filling 43% vacant MBBS posts and 54% specialist posts.
Background
The PCMSA previously went on a week-long strike in September 2024 but called it off after the AAP-led Punjab government gave written assurances to meet their demands in a time-bound manner. Despite this, no concrete actions have followed, leading to the resumption of the strike.
Shortages Highlighted
- Specialist Doctors: Of 2,689 posts, 1,600 remain vacant.
- MBBS Doctors: Of 2,293 posts, nearly 1,000 are unfilled.
Association’s Statement
PCMSA President Dr. Akhil Sarin expressed regret over the decision to strike but emphasized that it was necessary to prevent the collapse of Punjab’s public healthcare system. Sarin noted, “We are being forced into this action due to the government’s inaction. We hope the government will fulfill its commitments to avoid disruptions in healthcare delivery.”
Next Steps
A meeting scheduled for January 12 in Moga will outline further plans for the strike. The doctors aim to pressure the government into immediate action to ensure public healthcare stability.
Implications
If unresolved, the strike could disrupt healthcare services across the state, affecting routine medical care and emergency services. The government is expected to engage with the association before the strike date to mitigate potential fallout.
