In a significant development, doctors at government medical college hospitals in Kerala, who had initiated an indefinite boycott of outpatient duties on Monday, have decided to temporarily suspend their strike for one week. This decision comes after the state government requested additional time to thoroughly consider their long-standing demands.
Late-Night Talks Lead to Temporary Truce
The suspension was announced following a crucial late-night discussion on Monday between representatives of the Kerala Government Medical College Teachers Association (KGMCTA) and the additional chief secretaries of finance and health. While the outpatient boycott is paused, the doctors will continue their relay hunger strike and boycott of teaching duties, maintaining pressure on the authorities.
Core Demands of the Medical Fraternity
KGMCTA office-bearers expressed frustration that despite the state government's decision to fully disburse pending salary revisions for other state employees, medical college doctors—often described as guardians of public health—have been left out. Their comprehensive list of demands includes:
- Immediate release of pending salary revisions
- Addressing salary discrepancies that discourage young qualified doctors from joining medical colleges
- Creating new positions to improve patient care capacity
- Aligning career advancement promotions with National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines
- Resolving pension ceiling issues for retired medical professionals
- Enhancing infrastructure and treatment facilities for both patients and doctors
- Releasing dearness allowance (DA) arrears
- Ensuring a safe and conducive work environment
Background of the Protests
The KGMCTA has been actively protesting since July 1, 2025, due to the persistent lack of resolution from government authorities. Even after a meeting with the health minister in November 2025—following intensified protests including a relay outpatient boycott—no concrete steps were taken to address their concerns. This pattern of unmet promises ultimately led to the escalation of their strike actions.
Future Course of Action
If the government fails to address their concerns within the given timeframe, the doctors have outlined a phased escalation plan. Starting February 9, all government medical college hospitals will begin an indefinite boycott of non-urgent surgeries. Furthermore, from February 11, they will additionally boycott university examination duties, significantly impacting medical education and healthcare services across the state.
The medical community remains hopeful that this one-week window will yield positive results, but they stand prepared to intensify their protest if their legitimate demands continue to be overlooked by the administration.
