12 september 2024 : The Punjab government has agreed in principle to meet several demands of the Punjab Civil Medical Services Association (PCMSA), including reinstating the assured career progression (ACP) scheme and enhancing security for healthcare workers. Despite this agreement, the PCMSA has decided to continue their strike until a formal written confirmation of these promises is received from the government.
A meeting was held in Chandigarh with PCMSA representatives and a Cabinet sub-committee, including Finance Minister Harpal Cheema and Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, where the issues were thoroughly discussed. The state government has also begun the recruitment process for doctors to address the current shortfall, with 2,800 doctors currently serving against a sanctioned strength of 4,600.
Since September 9, approximately 2,500 doctors have been on a half-day strike, which has disrupted medical services for three hours daily. OPDs, elective surgeries, and medical examinations were suspended during these hours, though emergency services and intensive care units remained operational.
In a statement, the PCMSA acknowledged the sub-committee’s assurance of issuing a formal acceptance letter but maintained that the strike would continue until this official communication is received. Originally, the PCMSA had planned a total closure of OPDs from September 9 to 14, but agreed to limit the disruption to half-day closures until September 11 to allow time for further discussions.
From September 12, the second phase of the strike will see a complete shutdown of OPDs and suspension of elective surgeries, as well as medical examinations for various purposes. Emergency services, caesarean sections, and life-saving surgeries will proceed as usual, and essential services like post-mortems and medico-legal examinations will also continue.
