Medical interns across Jammu and Kashmir have launched protests demanding a substantial increase in their monthly stipend, saying the current amount of around Rs 12,300 does not match their workload or rising living costs.

The interns have called for the stipend to be increased to Rs 30,000. They said they routinely work in emergency departments, outpatient departments and wards, besides taking night shifts and undertaking rural postings.

At the Government Medical College in Srinagar, protesting interns said their stipend has remained unchanged for nearly seven years.

Why interns are demanding more

The protesting doctors said they often work long hours and shoulder responsibilities that are essential to the functioning of hospitals.

One intern said the current stipend does not even cover the cost of commuting to the hospital. Another described interns as an important part of the healthcare system, pointing to their duties during OPD hours, night shifts and emergency services.

The interns said the disparity becomes more noticeable when their stipend is compared with payments in other states, where monthly amounts can exceed Rs 30,000.

Strike continues across hospitals

Medical interns at various hospitals have decided to continue their strike until their stipend is enhanced.

Interns at Government Medical College, Baramulla, also joined the protest. They said that although internship is compulsory training, they handle routine hospital work and emergency services while receiving what they consider an inadequate stipend.

The interns are seeking a written government order rather than another assurance.

Government says the matter is under review

Jammu and Kashmir Health Minister Sakina Itoo said the issue had been taken up by the government and was currently under process.

However, she said increasing the stipend would have financial implications and that the matter was being examined by the Finance Department.

The minister acknowledged the need for an increase but said the interns did not need to go on strike because such action could affect patient care.

Earlier proposals have not moved forward

The interns said the issue has been pending for several years.

A committee constituted by the Health and Medical Education Department in 2023 had reportedly recommended an increase to around Rs 25,000 for 2025-26. The issue was also raised during the 2026 Assembly session, when a proposed stipend of around Rs 26,300 was mentioned.

However, interns said the proposed revision has still not been implemented.

The Congress has also backed the interns’ demand. Pradesh Congress chief Tariq Hameed Karra wrote to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah seeking an increase, pointing out the long and demanding shifts undertaken by medical interns.

For now, the interns say their protest will continue until the government formally revises their stipend.