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On June 1, 2024, around 100 MBBS interns at Banas Medical College, Palanpur, initiated a strike, demanding an increase in their monthly stipend from Rs. 12,000 to Rs. 18,200. The interns argue that their current stipend falls significantly short of the minimum stipend mandated by the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines.
Reasons Behind the Strike
A protesting intern, speaking anonymously, highlighted three main reasons for their demand:
- NMC guidelines stipulate a minimum stipend of Rs. 18,200 per month.
- It is stated that interns should receive at least Rs. 500 per day.
- A high court order indicates that if an institute fails to provide the fixed stipend, interns should not be overburdened with work.
Despite multiple approaches to the dean and college authorities, the interns’ concerns have not been addressed, prompting the continuation of their strike.
Support from the United Doctors Front Association (UDFA)
The United Doctors Front Association (UDFA) has extended support to the interns. Dr. Arun Kumar, the National General Secretary of UDFA, highlighted additional issues, including the lack of proper accommodation for interns. According to NMC regulations, hostel facilities should be provided, but currently, interns are required to travel 8-10 kilometers to reach the hospital, impacting their physical health.
Accommodation and Working Conditions
Interns have reportedly been forced to sign consent forms agreeing to no hostel facilities on campus. Dr. Kumar questioned how NMC could permit a medical college without adequate hostel facilities, suggesting potential corruption among officials. He also pointed out that interns are often working 60 hours a week, exceeding the supposed 48-hour duty limit, without adequate compensation.
Recent Developments and Legal Proceedings
The management’s refusal to engage in dialogue has led to heightened tensions. Interns reported being denied entry to the college premises and facing threats and assaults by security personnel. This morning, approximately 15-20 new security personnel were employed to prevent interns from entering the campus.
The issue of stipend discrepancies is currently before the Supreme Court. On May 6, the Apex Court directed the NMC to submit details of stipends paid to MBBS interns across all medical colleges within four weeks. Following this, the NMC has requested medical colleges to provide detailed stipend information for the academic years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025. Additionally, colleges must update their stipend details monthly on their websites and submit comprehensive annual statements to the NMC.
Conclusion
The ongoing strike by Banas Medical College interns highlights significant issues regarding stipend inadequacies and working conditions. The interns, backed by UDFA, continue to press for their demands, seeking intervention from higher authorities to resolve the matter effectively.