Srinagar, October 19: The All India Medical Students’ Association (AIMSA) and MBBS and BDS interns across Jammu and Kashmir have announced candle marches tonight at all Government Medical Colleges (GMCs) and SKIMS Bemina over the continued delay in the long-pending stipend hike.
The decision follows the alleged failure of the government to honour its written assurance and repeated commitments despite the expiry of the promised timelines.
AIMSA Intern representatives Dr Shahnawaz, Dr Mohammad Tasadduk Kawser, Dr Danish Ali, Dr Faisal Ashraf, Dr Aakib Javaid, Dr Runga Zamin Javaid, Dr Ahmad Faraz, Dr Milad met the Director General, Finance (Budget), Mohd Sultan Malik, and the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Health and Medical Education Minister at the Civil Secretariat today.
They expressed frustration over contradictory statements regarding the status of the file, continued procedural delays and the absence of a formal government order.
Representatives also raised concerns over the alleged discourteous treatment and reported warnings against those pursuing the demand.
AIMSA State President, Dr Mohammad Momin Khan criticised the continued delay, stating that interns cannot be made to wait indefinitely after receiving written assurances.
He said interns are doctors contributing directly to patient care and deserve a fair stipend and respect for their professional dignity.
“Further peaceful protests would be a consequence of continued administrative inaction, reiterating their demand”, Intern Doctors said. “No More False Assurances. Honour the Written Commitment. Issue the Stipend Enhancement Order Now.
