Maharashtra Resident Doctors Association of Calls Off Strike as Govt Fulfills Demands, Hikes Stipend

The resident doctors have been demanding for immediate implementation of a stipend hike of Rs. 10,000 to ensure the welfare of resident doctors.

The Maharashtra State Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) has announced the suspension of their strike following successful negotiations with the state government. In a landmark meeting presided over by Honorable Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and Honorable Minister of Medical Education Hassan Mushrif, along with key officials from various ministries, MARD representatives presented their demands which have now been met.

Central MARD President Dr. Abhijit Helge, General Secretary Dr. Rahul Munde, State Convenor Dr. Shubham Soni, Vice President Dr. Sarbik De, and other members participated in the discussions where the authorities demonstrated understanding and empathy towards the genuine concerns of resident doctors.

After thorough deliberation lasting over two hours, the government has made the following commitments:

Infrastructure Improvement: Immediate allocation of necessary funds and acceleration of Public Works Department (PWD) projects across the state to address hostel repairs, commence construction of new hostel facilities, and arrange temporary accommodations until new infrastructure is established.

Stipend Regularization: Prompt regularization of stipend payments, clearing all pending stipends and arrears for resident doctors statewide. Furthermore, assurance of timely monthly stipend payments with the finance department instructed to release allocated funds punctually.

Stipend Hike: Immediate implementation of a stipend hike of Rs. 10,000 to ensure the welfare of resident doctors.

These decisions, as communicated by the Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER) in writing, have led MARD to suspend the strike. Emphasizing the paramount importance of patient care, MARD reaffirms its commitment to duty while expressing gratitude for the government's responsiveness to their demands.

However, MARD has cautioned that failure to fulfill the commitments within the stipulated 10-day period will compel them to initiate an all-out indefinite strike across Maharashtra.

This significant development marks a collaborative effort between the government and medical professionals to address critical issues in healthcare, ensuring the well-being of both doctors and patients alike.