The Kerala High Court has directed the state government and the State Police Chief to take immediate and effective measures to ensure that hospital services continue without disruption amid the ongoing statewide agitation by nurses demanding higher salaries.
The court emphasised that access to hospitals must remain completely free and unobstructed, warning that any interference with healthcare services could directly endanger patients who rely on timely medical treatment.
Court Stresses Unhindered Access to Hospitals
The directions were issued by a Bench led by Justice Mohammed Nias C. P. while hearing a petition filed by the Kerala Private Hospitals’ Association.
The bench observed that no blockade, intimidation, or obstruction should be allowed near hospital premises. Authorities were instructed to ensure that healthcare workers who are willing to continue their duties are able to do so without facing threats or coercion from those participating in the protest.
The court underlined that hospitals provide essential services and any disruption could have serious consequences for patients requiring urgent medical care.
Petition Seeks Protection for Hospital Operations
In its plea, the Kerala Private Hospitals’ Association informed the court that the ongoing agitation by nurses demanding higher wages was affecting the functioning of private hospitals across the state.
According to the association, several hospital services, including emergency and critical care, have been adversely affected due to the protests.
The petition requested the authorities to take action under the Essential Services Maintenance Act, 1968 and the Kerala Essential Services Maintenance Act, 1994. It urged the government to treat hospital services as essential services and prevent strikes or other actions that could disrupt patient care.
Nursing Shortage Reported in Several Districts
Reports indicate that hospitals in districts such as Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kannur, and Kasaragod are experiencing a shortage of nursing staff as many nurses have stayed away from duty.
The protesting nurses have demanded that the minimum salary be increased to ₹40,000.
Hospital authorities stated that the shortage has forced many facilities to rely heavily on postgraduate doctors to perform duties usually handled by nursing staff.
Pressure Mounts on Young Doctors
Senior doctors from private hospitals reported that the sudden redistribution of responsibilities has placed significant pressure on postgraduate doctors.
While these doctors are trained to assist with clinical work, they are already managing demanding clinical training and academic responsibilities, making the situation particularly challenging.
Some hospitals are reportedly struggling to manage emergency department admissions due to insufficient nursing staff.
Hospitals Warn of Possible Rise in Treatment Costs
Hospital management groups have also cautioned that if the minimum salary of nurses is increased to ₹40,000, hospitals may need to raise treatment charges to offset the additional financial burden.
At the same time, doctors have urged authorities to ensure that emergency services remain exempt from strike actions so that critically ill patients do not face delays in treatment.
Nurses Continue Protests
Protesting nurses continued demonstrations in front of the Civil Station in Kozhikode, maintaining their demand for better pay.
One nurse participating in the protest said the profession has long been undervalued despite its crucial role in the healthcare system.
“We will not gamble with the lives of patients, but we must be given the consideration we deserve,” the protesting nurse said.
