Pune: Indefinite Nurses’ Strike Disrupts Elective Surgeries at Sassoon Hospital
Pune, 22nd July 2025: The indefinite strike launched by the Maharashtra State Nurses Association has reached its sixth day, disrupting medical operations at Sassoon General Hospital, Pune. The protest—sparked by unresolved pay anomalies under the 7th Pay Commission—has forced the hospital to postpone elective surgeries, although emergency services remain fully operational.
According to Dr. Yellappa Jadhav, Medical Superintendent at Sassoon Hospital, 340 of the hospital’s 939 nurses have joined the statewide agitation. This has led to a strain on routine hospital functions, especially inpatient and surgical services.
To bridge the staffing gap, 130 trainee nurses from the affiliated nursing college have been deployed to handle essential services. “While we have delayed scheduled surgeries, emergency procedures are being carried out without interruption. Outpatient departments (OPDs) are also functional, with daily footfall ranging between 1,700 and 2,000 patients,” said Dr. Jadhav.
On Friday, the hospital managed to perform only 20 to 25 surgeries, down from its usual 50 to 70 daily procedures, due to the shortage of active nursing staff.
In an attempt to reduce the pressure, hospital authorities have approached private medical colleges for additional nursing manpower. Despite the walkout, priority continues to be given to emergency and critical care cases, ensuring urgent patients receive the necessary treatment.
The striking nurses are demanding complete implementation of the 7th Pay Commission and resolution of long-standing salary discrepancies. The strike has affected major government hospitals across Maharashtra, highlighting the indispensable role nurses play in the public healthcare system.
