Eight months ago, a glimmer of hope emerged for medical interns in Kashmir. Plagued by meagre stipends of Rs 12,500, far below their counterparts in other parts of India, they welcomed the formation of a committee tasked with addressing this disparity. Yet that hope has curdled into despair as months of silence mark the committee’s findings. These young doctors, toiling in various medical colleges across Kashmir, perform duties comparable to those of resident doctors, putting in extra hours and bearing the weight of immense responsibility. Yet, their compensation barely surpasses that of daily wage labourers. This discrepancy is not only unjust but also unsustainable. The committee, formed in June 2023, recommended a 50 percent hike, but the recommendation sits gathering dust. This unexplained delay is not just an administrative oversight; it’s a disregard for the interns’ plight.
The students themselves express their growing disillusionment. Having anticipated an improvement based on the initial order, they now grapple with despair. Even in an administration known for its promptness, this issue remains inexplicably stagnant. The consequences of this inaction are far-reaching. Low stipends not only impact the interns’ ability to meet their basic needs but also raise concerns about their motivation and future career choices. Ignoring this issue does a disservice not only to the interns but also to the healthcare system itself. Investing in our future medical professionals is not just a moral imperative; it’s a strategic necessity. By ensuring fair compensation and fostering a supportive environment, we cultivate a generation of dedicated doctors who will serve the state with excellence. Intern demands are reasonable and must be accepted. It is time to ensure that these young doctors are not only valued but also adequately compensated for their crucial contributions.
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