Date:06/07/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2009/07/06/stories/2009070650070100.htm

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Government accepts most demands of doctors

Special Correspondent

Doctors had called for one-day stir on Monday
Trainee Doctors’ Association begins indefinite stir

CHENNAI: The State government was close to negotiating a deal with doctors to avert the one-day token strike called by the Tamil Nadu Government Doctors’ Association (TNGDA) for Monday to press for Central pay parity.

After several rounds of talks, including a late evening meeting convened by Health Minister M.R.K. Panneerselvam – it was continuing at the time of going to the press – sources indicated that the government had acceded to “80 per cent of the demands” put forth by the TNGDA.

An estimated 12,000 doctors were expected to participate in the strike. The TNGDA had called for the token strike to press for implementing the “Special Doctors Promotion Scheme” that would provide pay parity to levels recommended by the 6th Central Pay Commission.

It is also demanding Dynamic Assured Career Progression for State doctors.

The doctors’ strike coincides with an ongoing stir by the Tamil Nadu Non-service, Medical, Dental, PG Students and Trainee Doctors’ Association, which on Sunday launched an indefinite strike to press for higher stipend in spite of the government announcing a hike.

A spokesman of the unit, Dr. Arul said the association would stage a demonstration in front of the Collectorate here on Monday. The Doctors’ Association for Social Equality has expressed solidarity with the strike.