Bhubaneswar, July 2: The Odisha government has appealed to striking doctors across the state to withdraw their agitation and return to duty, assuring them that their demands will be addressed through constructive dialogue. Officials emphasized that uninterrupted patient care remains the government’s foremost priority.

Govt’s Appeal for Dialogue
In its statement, the government noted that healthcare services across Odisha are continuing peacefully but urged members of the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA) to resume duties and join discussions. “Service is the highest duty,” the government reminded, requesting doctors to prioritize patient welfare.

Previous Engagements
Before the strike began, senior officials including the Health and Family Welfare Minister, Parliamentary Affairs representatives, and the Health Director had held detailed discussions with OMSA representatives. The department also engaged in multiple rounds of talks to address concerns.

Benefits Already Implemented
The government highlighted that several demands of doctors have already been accepted, including cadre restructuring, Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP), special incentives, and place-based incentives. Additional provisions have also been introduced to support doctors pursuing higher education.

Salaries Withhold
The Health & Family Welfare Department has directed authorities to withhold the salaries of OMHS medical officers participating in the strike until they resume duty. It has also ordered that contractual doctors absent from work due to the strike be terminated after due notice.

Patient Care Priority
Officials reiterated that while the government remains sensitive to doctors’ legitimate demands, patient interests and uninterrupted healthcare services must take precedence. The statement warned that if patient care is disrupted, the government would be compelled to take necessary measures.