Pune: Resident Doctors’ Strike in Maharashtra Called Off After Deputy Chief Minister’s Commitments

Pune, 7th February 2024: The Maharashtra State Association of Resident Doctors (Central MARD) has announced the termination of their planned indefinite strike, slated for February 7, 2024, following assurances from Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Deputy CM Pawar pledged to augment stipends by Rs 10,000 and ensure the prompt disbursement of tuition fees, addressing long-standing grievances of medical students.

In a crucial meeting between Central MARD representatives and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, specific commitments were made to address the concerns raised. Dr. Abhijit Helge, head of Central MARD, emphasized the significance of these commitments, supported by documented assurances. However, Central MARD has reserved the right to pursue further action if these commitments are not fulfilled within the stipulated 10-day period.

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar chaired a ministerial meeting to delve into the issues highlighted by Central MARD, with Minister of Medical Education Hasan Mushrif and Principal Secretary of Planning Department Saurabh Vijay among the key attendees. Pawar stressed the urgency of resolving issues related to medical college hostels, directing the Public Works Department to expedite repair and construction endeavours. Furthermore, he advocated for the incorporation of hostel facilities in the development plans for new medical colleges to cater to the accommodation needs of future medical professionals.

उपमुख्यमंत्री अजित पवार यांनी केलेल्या आवाहनानुसार राज्यातील निवासी डॉक्टरांनी प्रस्तावित संप घेतला मागे

Immediate actions include the initiation of repairs on existing postgraduate student hostels and the acceleration of construction projects for new facilities by the Public Works Department. In cases necessitating alternative accommodations, efforts will be made to secure rental properties, with financial assistance extended to affected students as required.

Deputy Chief Minister Pawar delineated a timeline for evaluating the efficacy of these measures following the conclusion of the state’s budget session.