Kashmir Impulse Desk
Srinagar, Aug 31
Health Minister Sakina Itoo on Monday said medical interns’ demand for a higher stipend was justified but urged them to end their strike, saying the issue was under consideration by the Finance Department.
Itoo said representatives of the interns had met her and that their demand had subsequently been referred to the Finance Department for examination.
“Their demand is justified,” Itoo told reporters, citing inflation and the need to increase the stipend. She said Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had also expressed the same view.
Itoo said the government and Health Department were working on the matter and that a strike was not necessary while the demand was being considered.
“The matter is already under process,” she said. “Going on strike is not appropriate, as it affects patient care.”
MBBS and BDS interns began an indefinite strike on Monday, demanding that their monthly stipend be raised from Rs 12,300 to Rs 30,000.
