Healthcare standoff in HP as doctors protest with black bands
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The Newz Radar
Healthcare professionals across Himachal Pradesh have launched widespread protests, signaling their discontent with the state government’s apparent disregard for their demands. Doctors in various government hospitals, starting with Dharamshala’s regional hospital, commenced services with black bands prominently displayed.
Dr. Udit Choudhary, a spokesperson for the protesting doctors, shed light on their longstanding grievances. The primary demand revolves around the reinstatement of non-practicing allowance (NPA), a matter that has been repeatedly brought to the attention of the state government without any concrete resolution.
Dr. Choudhary stated that this protest is not only about NPA but also encompasses demands for promotions for positions such as 4-9-14 and crucial administrative roles like Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) and Block Medical Officers (BMOs). Despite numerous demonstrations in the past, assurances have been the sole response from the authorities, leaving the medical fraternity frustrated.
The symbolic act of providing medical services with black bands serves as a visual representation of the growing dissatisfaction among doctors.
Dr. Choudhary warned that if their demands continue to be neglected, the next step in their strategy would involve liaising with state representatives to formulate a decisive course of action.