Jammu Kashmir Intern Doctors Stipend Stagnation Fuels LG Plea

Frustration boils over among Jammu and Kashmir’s MBBS and BDS interns as their stipend remains frozen at 12,300 rupees, despite tireless service. After prolonged waits, they’ve escalated their demand for a raise straight to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, calling for his decisive role in this protracted battle.

The issue’s core is inter-departmental buck-passing. Finance says the file’s with the CMO; Health Minister Sakina Itoo points back to Finance. Intern spokesperson Dr. Momin lays bare the inequity: Five years of intense training culminate in shifts rivaling manual labor, yet pay lags behind even daily wagers at 700-800 rupees per day.

Benchmarking reveals the gap. Bihar’s fresh approvals contrast sharply with J&K, as do Odisha and West Bengal’s 30,000-plus packages. Interns, handling emergencies round-the-clock, question why their sacrifices merit such disregard.

Chronic delays breed distrust. Official assurances from CMO ring hollow after months of inaction. ‘It’s not just money; it’s respect for our profession,’ Dr. Momin emphasized.

This appeal to LG Sinha marks a pivotal moment. With youth at the forefront of J&K’s medical revival, equitable stipends could stem brain drain and boost dedication. The ball’s in the administration’s court—time to deliver justice to these unsung heroes.