Medical interns from ten Government Medical Colleges and two Dental Colleges in Jammu and Kashmir have initiated a 48-hour hunger strike starting Monday. This action follows unsuccessful talks with the state government aimed at resolving their demands for an enhanced monthly stipend after seven days of protests.
Dr. Faraz, a medical intern participating in the hunger strike, expressed frustration over the prolonged lack of governmental response. “Our strike is indefinite. It will not stop until we receive an official order. It’s been over a week since our strike began, and if the government takes this issue seriously, it shouldn’t take this long to issue an order,” he stated.
Feeling compelled to escalate their protest, the interns believe that a hunger strike is necessary to maintain pressure on the government. “No one forced them. Two to three students from each college have come forward to sit on a hunger strike,” Dr. Faraz explained.
The interns voiced their discontent with the government’s repeated requests for more time, claiming that they have already waited three years for an increase in their stipend. “The recommendation was made in 2023. Even if we assume they only started taking the issue seriously after the strike began, eight days have passed, and there is still no order. If they continue to provide vague verbal assurances, the interns will not be convinced anymore,” Dr. Faraz added.
He further accused the college administration of attempting to intimidate and threaten the interns for their actions. “It is unacceptable. We are protesting for our legitimate rights. We will not back down if the college administration tries to silence us through unfair means,” he said, referring to their response to administration’s coercive tactics.
Dr. Musharaf, another participant in the hunger strike, acknowledged that while negotiations have seen some positive developments, a tangible solution remains elusive. “Our subsequent dialogue will continue moving forward, so we will not say that it has entirely failed,” he remarked.
As of now, the interns have commenced their 48-hour hunger strike, indicating that their future course of action will depend on the outcomes of ongoing discussions with the government. The interns remain steadfast in their commitment to fighting for their rights and improving their conditions.
