Government doctors in Odisha escalated their ongoing protest on Monday, extending the daily boycott of outpatient department (OPD) services from one hour to two hours across state-run hospitals.
The Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA) announced the move after growing frustration over the government’s failure to address a 10-point charter of demands. Starting today, OPD services in primary health centres (PHCs), community health centres (CHCs), and district headquarters hospitals (DHHs) will remain closed from 9 AM to 11 AM. However, emergency services, inpatient care, and critical procedures continued without disruption. OMSA leaders described the action as a “peaceful and responsible protest.”
The agitation began on December 26, 2025, with a symbolic one-hour OPD closure. Although the state government formed an inter-departmental committee led by an additional chief secretary to review the demands, doctors argued that progress has been negligible.
Key Demands
- Implementation of Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP) for pay parity with central government doctors
- Timely promotions and cadre restructuring
- Annual increments and resolution of salary disparities
- Better insurance coverage and security measures for doctors
- Filling vacant posts and improving rural health infrastructure
On the first day of the extended protest, patients faced long queues outside hospitals as routine consultations halted during peak hours. Elderly patients and those from rural areas expressed frustration, though many acknowledged the doctors’ grievances.
The Odisha government maintained that the committee is actively examining the demands. Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling stated that discussions are underway, but admitted no timeline has been set for resolution.
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