J&K Medical Interns Call Off Strike After Govt Pledges Stipend Review

Medical interns in Jammu and Kashmir have ended their strike after the government assured them that their demand for a higher stipend would be addressed within a month. The decision came on Tuesday following a meeting between intern representatives and Health Minister Sakina Itoo.

The minister's office confirmed that the stipend matter is already under review by a specially constituted Stipend Enhancement Committee. The government has pledged to finalise a decision within 30 days, taking into account the "legitimate interests and concerns" of the interns.

According to the official record of the meeting, the interns agreed to resume duties "forthwith" in the larger interest of patient care and to protect their academic and professional interests. The delegation had highlighted their existing stipend structure, workload, and responsibilities within the healthcare system.

The development came just hours after medical colleges issued show-cause notices to the striking interns, a move criticised by the Opposition as contradictory to the government's stance. The interns, on strike since August 31, were demanding a raise from their current monthly stipend of Rs 12,500 to Rs 30,000, arguing their pay is among the lowest in the country despite heavy workloads and long shifts.