The Odisha Health and Family Welfare Department issued a strict directive against doctors participating in the ongoing strike, warning of salary stoppage for regular medical officers and termination of contractual staff.
The department stated that members of the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA), doctors of the OMHS cadre, and some contractual doctors have boycotted health services in government hospitals since July 1. The strike, called by OMSA, highlights pending service-related demands.
Officials confirmed that the state government invoked the Odisha Essential Services (Maintenance) Act (OESMA), 1988, through a Home Department notification dated January 6, 2026. The Act prohibits strikes by doctors and paramedics, as health services fall under essential services.
The directive described the boycott as “gross misconduct” and said striking doctors violated Rules 3 and 4 of the Orissa Government Servants’ Conduct Rules, 1959, along with provisions of OESMA.
Authorities ordered all concerned departments to withhold salaries of OMHS cadre doctors absent from duty until further instructions. The letter also warned that contractual doctors who continue to remain absent will face termination after due notice.
The government emphasised that the strike has deprived the public of healthcare services and reiterated its stance that essential services cannot be disrupted.
