Chennai | The Tamil Nadu government’s recent revision of minimum wages for Duty Medical Officers (DMOs) working in private hospitals has triggered widespread criticism from doctors across the state, who have called the move “unfair”, “unscientific”, and “demoralising.”
The revised pay structure, issued by the Labour Welfare and Skill Development Department, sets the basic monthly wage for DMOs in hospitals with 1 to 50 beds between ₹14,875 and ₹16,057, depending on location. For hospitals with over 1,000 beds, the revised wage is marginally higher—ranging from ₹15,634 to ₹16,876.
Doctors argue that the pay hike does not reflect the magnitude of their responsibilities and say it fails to address ground realities. Many are questioning the logic of linking salary to hospital bed strength, especially when the nature of work remains equally demanding across institutions.
“This is a gross injustice. The wage difference between a 50-bed and a 1,000-bed hospital is barely ₹800. How can that possibly reflect the increased workload and patient volume?” said Dr V Vignesh Rajendran, President of the Tamil Nadu Resident Doctors Association. “It sets a dangerous precedent and makes a mockery of our profession.”
The medical fraternity warns that the revised wage structure could be misused by corporate hospitals to justify minimal pay for maximum work. Several doctors reported routinely working 24 to 36-hour shifts with no proper rest, while being paid less than ₹40,000 a month.
Dr GR Rabindranath, General Secretary of the Doctors Association for Social Equality, said, “The government’s policy clearly benefits corporate hospitals. The fixation of wages lacks a scientific basis and facilitates exploitation. This will only demoralise young doctors and discourage them from staying in the profession.”
A cardiologist from Vellore also expressed concern, stating, “We’re building more hospitals and increasing medical seats without addressing the financial distress of healthcare workers. Postgraduates, interns, even professors are underpaid and overworked. Many face family issues due to financial stress.”
The revised wages have raised alarm that Tamil Nadu, a historically stronghold of medical education and service, may begin to see an exodus of skilled doctors to other states or abroad in search of better pay and working conditions.
Doctors have now urged the state government to reassess the pay structure and adopt a more transparent, fair, and rational approach that respects the contribution and well-being of medical professionals.
