Satkhira Medical College intern doctors begin indefinite strike
Intern doctors say they will continue the strike until their demands on welfare, training and workplace conditions are met
Intern doctors at Satkhira Medical College today (7 June) announced an indefinite strike in support of what they described as nationwide demands concerning doctors' welfare, training opportunities and workplace conditions.
The announcement came during a protest rally on the college campus, presided over by Dr Sajid Sazahan. The protesters said they would continue the strike until their demands are met.
Among those who addressed the gathering were Dr Tasnim Binte Asad, Dr Sourav Sarkar, Dr Rana, Dr Shifat and Dr Morshed, among others.
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The speakers called for ensuring a safe working environment for doctors and eliminating salary disparities faced by FCPS trainee physicians. They also demanded the withdrawal of a proposed policy allowing BCS-qualified doctors to be appointed to posts designated for private-sector trainees.
The protesters further urged the authorities to reduce examination fees charged by BMU and BCPS, reinstate the upper age limit for doctors in BCS examinations at 34 years, and introduce a clear salary structure for doctors working in private healthcare institutions.
Dr Kudrat-e-Khoda, director of Satkhira Medical College Hospital, said the strike had not affected hospital services.
"There has been no impact on the hospital. Our doctors are managing the situation," he said.
He added that the protest was not limited to Satkhira.
"After looking into the matter, I learned that intern doctors across the country have also called for a strike over several of these demands," he said.
