Patna: Junior doctors at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) have launched a strike on Tuesday, halting outpatient department (OPD) services, to press for a hike in their monthly stipend.
The Junior Doctors Association (JDA) said the government has repeatedly ignored their requests for an increase, leaving them with no choice but to protest. “We have taken this step out of compulsion so that our voice reaches the authorities and we receive a proper honorarium,” a spokesperson said. According to existing regulations, internship stipends are meant to be revised every three years, but no adjustments have been made for a prolonged period.
The association warned that if their demands are not met, OPD services would remain fully closed. Currently, interns receive Rs 20,000 per month, but the JDA is calling for a rise to Rs 40,000, citing rising inflation and increased workload.
The doctors have also raised concerns about security in the wake of a recent incident involving MLA Chetan Anand at Patna AIIMS. They are demanding better security measures, including CCTV cameras and enhanced protection in high-risk areas such as the trauma center, emergency ward, labour room, and ICU.
In addition, the association has called for the immediate withdrawal of a FIR filed against resident doctors and has urged the administration to provide full legal aid.
