Argus News - Odisha Govt Invokes OESMA For Six Months After Doctors’ Strike

Bhubaneswar, Jan 6: In a decisive move following the recent doctors’ agitation, the Odisha government has invoked the Odisha Essential Services Maintenance Act (OESMA) for a period of six months, bringing all health sector employees under its ambit, officials said on Tuesday.

The decision comes in response to disruptions in patient care caused by the strike, which had paralysed medical services across the state.

The Home Department issued strict directives mandating that all personnel engaged in healthcare services—including doctors, nurses, paramedics, and support staff—must comply with the provisions of OESMA. The Act prohibits strikes and work stoppages in essential services, ensuring uninterrupted delivery of medical care.

Officials emphasized that healthcare falls under the category of emergency services, and any disruption poses a direct threat to public welfare. “Patient care cannot be compromised. The government has taken this step to safeguard lives and maintain stability in the health system,” a senior official said.

The imposition of OESMA means that any violation, including refusal to work or participation in strikes, will attract legal consequences. The government has also warned of disciplinary action against employees who fail to adhere to the directives.

Also Read: OPD Services Hit In Odisha As Doctors Intensify Protest

The recent strike by doctors had led to widespread concern, with patients across hospitals facing delays in treatment and emergency services being severely affected. While the medical fraternity has raised issues regarding working conditions and demands for reforms, the government has stressed that dialogue and negotiation must take place without jeopardising critical healthcare delivery.

Legal experts note that invoking OESMA is a rare but necessary measure in times of crisis. “The Act is designed to protect essential services from disruption. In the case of healthcare, the stakes are particularly high,” said a senior lawyer.

With the order now in force, the government hopes to restore normalcy in hospitals and reassure citizens that medical services will remain functional. The move also signals the administration’s intent to balance workers’ rights with the imperative of safeguarding public health.