The ongoing standoff between Primary Health Centre (PHC) doctors and the Andhra Pradesh government shows no sign of abating. A recent meeting on October 17th with Saurabh Gaur, Principal Secretary for Health, Medical Education, and Family Welfare, concluded without a resolution, prompting doctors to continue their protest.
During the discussions, the Principal Secretary reiterated the government’s proposal to allocate 20% of seats in clinical postgraduate medical courses for PHC doctors. However, this offer falls short of the protesters’ core demand.
“Our talks have made no headway,” stated Vinod Kumar, treasurer of the A.P. Primary Health Centres’ Doctors’ Association. “There’s still no clarity on our crucial demand for a fixed 15% quota in clinical branches over the next three years.” Kumar revealed that the Principal Secretary indicated another meeting might be held in November, but doctors remain wary. “Last year, similar assurances were given, only for the government to renege on its word,” he added, expressing deep mistrust. “How can we possibly be assured that the government will honor its commitments this time?”
Dr. Vinod Kumar highlighted that the government had initially agreed to a three-year, 15% quota when the strike began, but is now seemingly backtracking.
Protests Escalate with Relay Hunger Strikes
With negotiations once again at a standstill, the doctors are stepping up their efforts. They plan to organize 24-hour relay hunger strikes, vowing to continue their protests even through the Deepavali festival, underscoring their unwavering determination.