Amid the second wave of Covid-19, several teachers of government-run medical colleges in Gujarat went on a strike on Wednesday demanding that the administration failed to fulfill its assurance of the demands put forwards by the teachers. Hundreds of professors and lecturers affiliated with the Gujarat Medical Teachers Association (GMTA) joined in the protest. Last Friday, members of GMTA proceeded on strike demanding a hike, among other things, but withdrew it hours later after the government promised to find a solution.
We had a high-level meeting with the government’s representatives on May 7, and we were happy that our demands were heard and the attitude of the government was positive. But we have not yet received any written proof of what demands have been accepted by the government. This is why we have called a new strike.
said Dr Rajnish Patel, president of GMTA, as reported by PTI.
Response From the Government
On the other hand, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani told the reporters “all justified demands have been accepted.”
He further added, “As a chief minister I request them to withdraw the strike as this is a time to save people from (coronavirus) infection.” As reported by PTI.
Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel, who holds the health portfolio, said in a late-night statement that he had approved steps to resolve the ten issues raised by striking teachers, and expressed hope that they will resume duty. He further added that the government will take proper action to meet the reasonable demands of all other employees of the health department.
What is GMTA Demanding?
GMTA is demanding a higher non-practicing allowance for teachers as per the 7th Pay Commission recommendations and the abolition of contractual appointments. It also wants permission for teachers to start private practice after 10 years of service.
Nursing staff of government hospitals also went on strike, demanding a hike in salary, nursing allowance as well as a stipend for nursing students.
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