MBBS interns across Uttar Pradesh have initiated a boycott of their hospital duties, protesting against the low stipend they receive. For the past four days, these interns have refused to work in at least 16 government medical colleges, advocating for an increase in their monthly stipend, which is currently set at Rs 12,000—the lowest among all Indian states.
Low Stipend vs. Rising Costs
The current stipend amounts to Rs 400 per day, which the interns argue is insufficient, even when compared to unskilled labor wages. They assert that managing their expenses with this amount is increasingly difficult due to rising living costs. The protest has affected about 3,800 intern doctors, who have written to UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and the Uttar Pradesh University of Medical Sciences’ vice-chancellor, Dr. Prabhat Kumar Singh.
Support from Medical Associations
The All India Medical Students’ Association has supported the protest, demanding an increase to Rs 1,000 per day (Rs 30,000 per month). Dr. Jitendra Singh, the national president of the association, warned that if the demands are not met within a week, there will be nationwide protests involving both interns and doctors. The Indian Medical Association has also backed the call for a uniform stipend policy across the country.
Impact on Interns and Medical Facilities
Interns report severe financial strain, with some claiming they have not received any stipend for up to three months. This delay has forced many to take loans or rely on family support. The shortage of interns is also placing additional pressure on the healthcare system, affecting patient care and increasing the workload on remaining medical staff.
University and Government Responses
The vice-chancellor of Uttar Pradesh University of Medical Sciences stated that the university management is not responsible for stipend matters and has marked the protesting interns as absent. The state government has not yet provided a response to the queries sent by Newslaundry regarding this issue.
Personal Accounts of Financial Strain
Interns like Raunak Yadav from Saifai and Anubhav Pratap Ojha from Kanpur have shared their personal challenges, including managing high expenses on a minimal stipend and the impact on their studies and living conditions. Many are struggling to balance their work with preparation for their NEET PG exams and basic living cost.
Source : Newslaundry