Government doctors in Odisha, represented by the Odisha Medical Service Association (OMSA), have declared a significant escalation in their ongoing protest. They will suspend outpatient department (OPD) services for one hour every day, starting December 26. This action is a precursor to a potential full-fledged strike beginning January 1, 2024, if the state government fails to address their long-pending 13-point charter of demands.
Core Demands and Government's Silence
OMSA General Secretary, Dr. Sanjib Kumar Pradhan, outlined the critical issues at the heart of the protest. The association's primary demands include achieving salary parity with central government scales for state doctors. They are also pressing for the unconditional implementation of a dynamic assured career progression (DACP) scheme and the provision of additional facilities for medical professionals.
"The government needs to address our demands seriously. If no action is taken, we will escalate our protest," Dr. Pradhan stated firmly. Despite the announcement, State Health Secretary Aswathy S has not yet commented on the situation, leaving the doctors' grievances unanswered.
Protest Plan and Escalation Strategy
The initial phase of the agitation will see doctors across the state ceasing OPD services from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM daily, commencing on December 26. This symbolic withdrawal of services is intended to highlight their plight without causing extreme inconvenience to emergency and inpatient care.
However, OMSA has warned of more severe steps if their demands continue to be ignored. Dr. Pradhan indicated that the association might be forced to consider mass resignations as a last resort. The situation is set to intensify, with a complete cessation of non-emergency duties planned for January 1 should negotiations remain stalled.
Specific Grievances and Systemic Issues
Beyond the core financial demands, OMSA has highlighted several specific administrative and welfare issues. Key among them is the request for the transfer of doctors who have served in the remote KBK (Kalahandi-Balangir-Koraput) region for 5-10 years to their home districts or nearby areas. The association is also advocating for administrative and other special allowances to be granted to doctors.
A major systemic crisis underpinning the protest is the severe shortage of medical staff. OMSA revealed that out of 15,776 sanctioned posts for its doctors, only about 8,000 are currently filled. They have urgently called for regular recruitment drives to bridge this massive gap, which directly impacts healthcare delivery across Odisha.
The association plans to hold a press conference on Tuesday to elaborate further on their stance and the planned course of action. The coming days are crucial as the state government's response will determine whether Odisha's healthcare system faces a major disruption in the new year.
