IMS Bemina interns begin hunger strike over stipend hike demand
Srinagar: Medical interns at the Institute of Medical Sciences (IMS) Medical College, Bemina, have launched a hunger strike as part of their ongoing agitation seeking an increase in their monthly internship stipend.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the protesting interns, belonging to the MBBS 2021 batch, intensified their agitation after repeated discussions with the authorities failed to result in a formal written order approving revision of the stipend.
In a statement, the interns said they had decided to begin the hunger strike following the continued lack of a written commitment from the authorities despite several rounds of dialogue and assurances.
“Our stand is clear: No Written Order — No End to the Protest,” the interns said, adding that the hunger strike would continue until a formal order addressing their demand is issued and the process is expedited.
The interns said their demand was aimed at ensuring fair compensation for the responsibilities and workload shouldered by intern doctors, describing the issue as one of justice and dignity.
They urged the authorities concerned to take immediate cognisance of their concerns and resolve the impasse through a formal government order.
The hunger strike marks a further escalation in the broader agitation by MBBS and BDS interns across occupied Jammu and Kashmir seeking an increase in the monthly internship stipend to Rs 30,000.
The interns have maintained that verbal assurances are no longer sufficient and that they would continue their protest until the government issues a written order.
