Patna: Government doctors in Bihar, under the banner of the Bihar Health Services Association (BHASA), will boycott outpatient department (OPD) services from Thursday in protest against what they describe as government neglect. The strike, set to continue until March 29, aims to highlight longstanding grievances, including salary delays and inadequate working conditions.
Dr Vinay Kumar, spokesperson for BHASA, said in a statement on Wednesday that multiple appeals to the Health Minister and department officials had gone unanswered. “For months, we have been raising concerns about the challenges faced by doctors in Bihar Health Services, but the government’s response has been indifferent,” he said.
Among the key issues cited by the association are the suspension of salaries in several districts, including Sheohar, Gopalganj, and Madhubani, due to biometric attendance policies. Doctors are also demanding improved security, housing facilities, sufficient staffing, and district-level postings.
The strike has garnered support from the Ayush System Association of Bihar, with further backing being considered by the Bihar State Dentists Association. Dr Javed, General Secretary of the Dentists Association, acknowledged the ongoing concerns while expressing gratitude to the Health Minister for initiating the recruitment process for dentists.
As tensions escalate, the impact of the OPD shutdown on patient care remains a pressing concern, with no immediate resolution in sight.
