Himachal Pradesh’s ambitious push for cheap medical testing hit a snag Tuesday when Krishna Lab employees at Una Regional Hospital staged a three-hour strike over delayed salaries. Part of the Mukhyamantri Nidan Yojana, the lab serves everyday citizens, but its workforce grapples with economic hardship after missing December and January pay.
Many staff hail from far-off spots like Dudhraj, renting in Una and now drowning in unpaid rent, rations, electricity bills, and sustenance costs. Despite multiple complaints, lab bosses offered only assurances, including a failed Monday payment pledge that triggered the morning protest.
From 9 AM to noon, operations froze as every employee participated, threatening statewide escalation absent concrete remedies. Lab worker Narendra Kumar shared his plight: ‘Explaining delays to landlords is torture; home expenses are impossible.’ Sanjana echoed, noting study fee defaults forcing the drastic step.
Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Verma, Una’s Chief Medical Officer, arrived post-strike onset without warning, yet pivoted to protect patients via the hospital’s own labs. ‘All vital diagnostics continue uninterrupted; public health remains our priority,’ he affirmed.
This crisis underscores cracks in the scheme’s execution, where noble intentions clash with payment realities. Swift action from officials could avert prolonged disruptions, ensuring the initiative truly benefits those it serves rather than burdening its foot soldiers.