Himachal Pradesh Doctors End Strike, Yet Many Remain Absent from Hospitals
Strike Called Off, But Hospitals Still Struggling
Shimla: Although the indefinite strike by resident doctors in Himachal Pradesh has officially concluded, hospitals, particularly the Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMC) in Shimla, have not fully returned to normal operations.
Despite the government's announcement of a breakthrough and the resumption of outpatient department (OPD) services at some facilities, the noticeable absence of numerous resident doctors raises concerns: if the strike is over, why are there still so few caregivers in the hospital corridors?
On Monday, December 29, 2025, OPD services resumed at Deen Dayal Upadhyay (DDU) Hospital, where patients formed long lines seeking overdue treatment. However, at IGMC, many resident doctors have not returned to their posts, indicating unresolved issues within the Resident Doctors Association (RDA) and ongoing worries about workplace safety.
Chief Minister's Intervention Leads to Strike Conclusion
The decision to end the strike came after Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu communicated with the doctors following his return from New Delhi. He emphasized that discussions would only occur once the doctors resumed their duties. In response, the RDA (IGMC unit) declared the strike's withdrawal, citing assurances from the state government.
The RDA stated that the Chief Minister has committed to a thorough investigation into the incident that triggered the protests and has promised to reconsider the dismissal of senior resident Dr. Raghav Nirula. Trusting these assurances and prioritizing public interest, the RDA announced the end of the strike late Sunday after a meeting.
Protests Sparked by Dismissal of Dr. Nirula
The doctors' protests began on December 26 after the state government dismissed Dr. Nirula due to a patient assault incident. The RDA and Himachal Pradesh Medical Officers Association deemed this action excessive and unilateral, leading to mass leave before the indefinite strike commenced on December 27.
This protest garnered significant support from various medical organizations, including state and national resident doctors' associations, medical teachers' associations, and other healthcare groups. The strike disrupted services in major government hospitals, particularly affecting patients in tertiary care centers like IGMC.
Internal Divisions Within RDA Over Safety Issues
Even with the official end of the strike, the RDA has fractured into two factions. A dissenting group has chosen not to return to work, insisting that safety issues must be resolved first. On Sunday, members of this faction protested at the gates of IGMC, chanting slogans like “We want justice.”
These doctors reported experiencing verbal abuse, threats, and intimidation from patients' relatives, citing a lack of basic security measures in the hospital. They highlighted the absence of CCTV cameras, insufficient security personnel, and inadequate facilities for female doctors. They have stated that they will not return to work until the government establishes a clear standard operating procedure (SOP) to ensure their safety.
Previously, CM Sukhu had assured that the government did not intend to jeopardize any doctor's career and acknowledged its duty to ensure their safety. He urged doctors to resume their duties and promised to engage in dialogue and find solutions once normal operations are restored.