Srinagar, June 16: Postgraduate (PG), DNB and Diploma doctors in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday raised serious concerns over the non-payment of stipends for the past six months despite continuing to provide essential healthcare services in government hospitals.
Doctors posted at District Hospital Pulwama and Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Shopian alleged that they have not received their stipends during this period, causing significant financial hardship and affecting their day-to-day lives.
A group of doctors at District Hospital Pulwama held a peaceful protest on Tuesday, demanding the immediate release of their long-pending dues.
The protesting doctors said they have continued to discharge their duties round the clock while facing mounting financial stress due to the delay in payments.
“We have been suffering because of the prolonged delay in the release of our stipends, which is our rightful entitlement. Despite working tirelessly for patients, our concerns have remained unaddressed,” said a doctor at District Hospital Pulwama, requesting anonymity.
The doctors said the delay has created difficulties in managing rent, transportation expenses and other essential financial commitments. They appealed to the authorities to intervene and resolve the issue at the earliest.
Meanwhile, prominent health activist Dr. Mohammad Momin Khan also expressed concern over the situation and urged the government to address the issue without further delay.
“Postgraduate, DNB and Diploma doctors continue to serve patients day and night, yet many have not received their stipends for the last six months. These young doctors form the backbone of healthcare services in many hospitals, and such delays are unacceptable,” Dr. Khan said.
He urged the Chief Minister, Health Minister and the concerned authorities to immediately release the pending stipends and ensure that doctors are not forced to struggle for their rightful dues while serving the public.
Dr. Khan emphasized that timely payment of stipends is essential for maintaining the morale and motivation of young doctors and for ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services across Jammu and Kashmir. He warned that prolonged delays could adversely affect the functioning of healthcare institutions and called for a mechanism to ensure timely disbursement of stipends in the future.
The protesting doctors expressed hope that the government would take swift action and resolve the issue to prevent further hardship to healthcare professionals dedicated to serving patients across the Union Territory.
