Protesting against transfer of 16 doctors from MCl Central Hospital to Talcher, AITUC secretary Anit Chakraborty began a fast-unto-death stir here on Monday.
Earlier, although the MCl management was requested to keep on hold the transfer order till alternate arrangements were made, no assurances received.
The strike was supported by other labour organizations. They alleged that step motherly attitude was always shown to the Ib Valley coalfields by the management.
Besides, the medical service is being affected due to doctors not willing to come to MCl Hospital from Talcher on transfer, they said.
Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Dipak Ambasta of Central Hospital(MCl) held discussions with the striking members. Ambasta said for ensuring stability in medical services, the transfer orders of Dr Anil Ranjan and Dr Samrendra Mahanayak are being considered for stay temporarily.
While 31 doctors were on the muster roll of the hospital, three have been sent on study tour. Another three have been transferred to Talcher. On January 2, another five doctors have been directed to join at Talcher. Two doctors have since resigned while one has gone on long leave. In this background, against 31 available doctors, 17 are practically available in the hospital.
Meanwhile, though there is a steep rise in dental patients due to cold waves, Dr DP Singh has already joined at Talcher and his reliever has gone on leave after joining in MCl hospital here. Nine doctors from Talcher Nehru Satabdi Central Hospital have not joined here till date. Only one doctor has gone on leave after joining.