Midnight Protest at GMC Bemina as Medical Interns Continue Stipend Agitation
Srinagar, Sep 2, KNT: Medical interns at Government Medical College (GMC) Bemina held a midnight protest as their indefinite agitation over the stipend entered its third day, with former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti visiting the protesting students and extending support to their demand for an increase to ₹30,000 a month.
Mufti said the protesting interns, whom she described as future doctors and a key part of the healthcare system, were being compelled to take to the streets despite undertaking extended hospital duties, including night shifts.
She called upon Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to meet the students and resolve the issue within a week, warning that continued inaction would prompt her to join the interns in their protest.
The former chief minister said the dispute went beyond the amount of the stipend, arguing that it concerned the dignity and recognition of young medical professionals working in government hospitals.
The interns have been demanding a substantial increase in their stipend, which they say has remained unchanged for years despite their workload and long duty hours.
The agitation has included sit-ins and candlelight protests at medical institutions across Jammu and Kashmir, with interns maintaining that they will continue their strike until their demand is addressed. [KNT]
About The Author
