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Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 9 (IANS) In an effort to avert an indefinite strike that could paralyze health services in government medical colleges, the state health department will hold conciliation talks with the Kerala Government Medical College Teachers Association (KGMCTA) on Monday.
Health Minister Veena George will chair the meeting, which aims to address the long-standing demands of the medical teachers’ body and find a solution through talks.
Officials said on Sunday that the department has already initiated discussions with KGMCTA representatives to resolve major issues related to pay revision, shortage of staff and lack of infrastructure.
“We are hopeful that an amicable solution will be found through talks,” a senior health department official said.
KGMCTA, representing faculty members of all government medical colleges, has announced an indefinite strike from this week to press for their demands.
The protests are expected to have a severe impact on patient services, including out-patient and in-patient care, although emergency services will continue.
The association has been agitating for months accusing the government of inaction despite repeated assurances. It had earlier boycotted out-patient (OP) duties for a day last month as a warning protest.
Following the alleged failure of the government to act, the union has now decided to intensify its agitation through a complete strike.
According to KGMCTA officials, their primary demands include immediate implementation of long-pending pay revision, payment of pre-2016 dues, rectification of pay anomalies and creation of new teaching and non-teaching posts to address the acute manpower shortage.
He has also demanded filling up of vacant posts and comprehensive upgradation of infrastructure and teaching facilities in medical colleges across the state.
A senior KGMCTA representative said, “The government has ignored repeated representations and memorandums. We are left with no option but to go on strike.” He said that the association is ready for talks if the government presents a concrete proposal.
As the standoff continues, hospital administrators have expressed concerns that the strike could disrupt patient care, academic programs and research work in medical colleges in the state.
The outcome of Monday’s meeting will decide whether the strike will continue or end.
–IANS
AL/DPB