Srinagar, Sep 02: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday extended support to medical students of Government Medical College (GMC) Bemina, Srinagar, who staged a midnight protest demanding a hike in their stipend.
A late-night candlelight vigil was also organised by the protesting students as they sought a rightful stipend of up to Rs 30,000.
Mehbooba said the students and future doctors had been “forced onto the streets” to demand what they rightfully deserved, while highlighting their long working hours and contribution to the healthcare system.
“These are the young doctors who work 36-hour shifts, including nights, caring for patients while the rest of us sleep. They are the backbone of our healthcare system yet they have to protest for what they rightfully deserve,” she said.
She said the issue was not merely about a stipend but about “dignity, justice and respect” for those working in hospitals. “I appeal to the CM: meet the students tomorrow and resolve this within a week. If their voices continue to be ignored, we will stand with them on the streets,” Mehbooba said.
“Pay our doctors what they deserve. They should not have to beg for dignity,” she added—(KNO)
