Bhubaneswar, July 3 (UDN): The standoff between the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA) and the Odisha Government intensified on Friday, with the association warning that the state administration would be responsible for any adverse consequences arising from the ongoing doctors’ agitation, including patient deaths.
Addressing the media, OMSA President Dr. Kishore Mishra said the association has remained open to dialogue since the beginning of the dispute but alleged that the government has failed to resolve the issue through meaningful negotiations.
“We have always been ready for discussions. However, instead of addressing our concerns, the government has delayed the process and resorted to threats against protesting doctors. If any patient loses his or her life during this period, the government will be held responsible,” Dr. Mishra said.
The association reiterated that its members would not resume duty until the government provides a written assurance on the fulfillment of their key demands. According to OMSA, returning to work without a formal commitment could weaken efforts to secure a lasting resolution to the issues raised by doctors.
Dr. Mishra also maintained that the association was not deterred by the government’s decision to initiate disciplinary measures, including salary freezes and warnings of further action against doctors continuing the protest.
Meanwhile, the Health and Family Welfare Department has appealed to the protesting doctors to immediately return to work in the interest of patients and ensure the uninterrupted functioning of government healthcare institutions. The government has maintained that public health services should not be disrupted and has warned of administrative action against those remaining absent from duty.
Senior officials of the Health Department have held discussions with OMSA representatives in an effort to break the deadlock. While both sides have expressed willingness to continue negotiations, no agreement had been reached at the time of filing this report.
The outcome of the ongoing talks is expected to determine whether the doctors’ agitation is withdrawn and normal healthcare services resume across the state.
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