Health Department Promises Action on Career Progression and Safety Concerns
Bhopal, February 23 – Government doctors across Madhya Pradesh have postponed their protest following assurances from the health department that their demands will be addressed.
Key Demands of Doctors
The doctors, represented by ‘Chikitsak Mahasangh,’ have been advocating for:
- Implementation of DACP (Dynamic Assured Career Progression) – A scheme that guarantees time-scale pay and promotions, already in place for Central government doctors.
- Improved workplace safety for doctors and paramedical staff.
Silent Protest and Growing Tensions
- Over 15,000 doctors launched a silent protest on February 20.
- Junior doctors at Bhopal’s Gandhi Medical College and Indore’s MY Hospital wore black bands to mark their dissent.
- The doctors had threatened an aggressive statewide agitation from February 25 if their demands were unmet.
Government’s Response and Midnight Meeting
- A high-power committee was formed in February 2023 to address doctors’ grievances, but progress had stalled.
- To resolve the issue, the state health department reconstituted a new committee.
- On February 23, a crucial meeting at Vallabh Bhavan, Bhopal, chaired by Principal Secretary Sandeep Yadav and Health Commissioner Tarun Rathi, lasted till midnight.
- After receiving assurances from government officials, the Chikitsak Mahasangh decided to suspend its ongoing protest.
Future Course of Action
While the protest has been postponed, doctors warned of renewed agitation if the government fails to take concrete steps. The health department’s response in the coming weeks will determine whether the matter is fully resolved or if another wave of protests emerges.
