Odisha doctors launch indefinite strike over 10 key demands

Bhubaneswar: The doctors have launched an indefinite strike on Wednesday under the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA), demanding fulfillment of their 10-point charter.

The OMSA leaders stated that the strike decision followed the government’s failure to address their demands over the past 18 months.

The association had earlier announced the strike would begin on July 1, coinciding with Doctors’ Day.

The association has also warned of intensified stir if the state government fails to take immediate action.

The statewide agitation by OMSA centres on a 10-point charter of demands aimed at systemic reforms within the state medical cadre. Key demands include the implementation of the Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP) scheme from the date of eligibility, matching the Central Pay Structure.

Furthermore, the association is demanding proportional cadre restructuring across all grades, a dedicated post-mortem allowance, and enhanced financial incentives for super-specialists, specialists, diploma-holding doctors, and medical administrators.

Due to the strike, health services across the state faced disruption as doctors have suspended duties and staged demonstrations outside hospitals in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and other districts.

Meanwhile, Junior doctors at the SCB Medical College and Hospital (SCBMCH) in Cuttack are wearing black badges while performing their duties in support of the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA).