Iltija Mufti Joins MBBS, BDS Interns’ Protest at GMC Anantnag, Says PDP Will Join Hunger Strike
Anantnag, September 3: PDP leader Iltija Mufti on Thursday joined the ongoing protest by MBBS and BDS interns at Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag, extending her support to their demand for an increase in the monthly stipend.
The protesting interns are demanding that their stipend be increased from the existing ₹12,300 to ₹30,000 per month, arguing that the present amount is inadequate considering their long working hours, clinical responsibilities and rising expenses.
The interns have been on an indefinite protest since August 31, pressing the government to take a concrete decision on their demand. They have maintained that despite performing essential duties in hospitals, including ward, OPD and emergency services, their stipend has remained significantly lower than what they believe is justified.
During her visit to the protest site at GMC Anantnag, Iltija Mufti interacted with the interns and heard their concerns. She expressed solidarity with their demands and urged the government to address the issue without further delay.
Mufti also issued a strong assurance to the protesting interns, saying that if the government fails to pay heed to their demands and the interns decide to go on a hunger strike, she along with the entire PDP will join them in the hunger strike.
She said the interns should not be forced to intensify their agitation and called upon the government to engage with them and find an immediate solution to the issue.
The interns, meanwhile, have reiterated that they will continue their protest until the government takes a concrete decision on the stipend hike. They are seeking a revision to ₹30,000 per month, saying the demand is aimed at ensuring fair compensation for the responsibilities they undertake during their internship.
The participation of Iltija Mufti has provided a fresh political dimension to the ongoing agitation, with the PDP leader making it clear that her party would stand with the interns if the government fails to resolve the matter and the protesters are compelled to launch a hunger strike.
