Doctors threaten protest over pending promises

Healthcare services in government hospitals may be hit as the Punjab Civil Medical Services (PCMS) Doctors’ Association has threatened to resume protests over the state government’s failure to meet promises made four months ago.

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State president Dr Akhil Sareen and general secretary Vaninder Riar announced that the association has issued an ultimatum to the government. They warned of a statewide OPD shutdown and protests beginning January 20 if their demands are not addressed. The association has scheduled a meeting with district units in Moga on January 12 to finalise their course of action.

In September 2024, government doctors across Punjab staged protests, shutting down OPD services to demand better security measures and career progression opportunities. On September 14, Punjab’s Health Minister publicly assured that their demands would be implemented within three weeks.

However, four months later, no action has been taken, leading to growing resentment among medical officers. The association’s primary demands include need for better security for hospital staff and patients, citing frequent incidents of theft and disturbances in healthcare facilities.

Doctors highlighted the stagnation in promotions, which has caused many professionals to leave government service for private institutions. The previously implemented career progression scheme (4-9-14 years) has been stalled without explanation.

Despite the government recently recruiting 304 medical officers, many selected candidates have not joined. Sources indicate that nearly one-third of the candidates declined the positions, citing poor working conditions

While the association expressed reluctance to disrupt healthcare services, they stressed the urgency of government intervention. “We are committed to serving the people, but without security and career growth, it is impossible to retain or attract talent in government hospitals,” a spokesperson said.

The PCMS Doctors’ Association has urged the Health Minister and administrative officials to secure necessary approvals from the finance department before the January 20 deadline to avoid protests.