Health Minister Says Government Reviewing Employees’ Demands; Appeals to Staff to Prevent Public Health Services From Being Affected
Nadeem Nadu
Srinagar, September 17 :
Health and Medical Education Minister Sakeena Itoo on Thursday appealed to employees working under the National Health Mission (NHM) to end their ongoing strike and return to duty, assuring that the government is examining their demands and will take appropriate measures on issues within its jurisdiction.
Speaking to reporters in Pampore, the minister said the government has already engaged with representatives of the protesting employees through several rounds of discussions. She said her department would continue examining the concerns raised by the NHM workforce.
Itoo acknowledged the employees’ right to raise their demands through democratic means, while stressing that healthcare services are directly linked with the welfare of the general public.
The minister said the government considers NHM employees an important part of the healthcare system and would make efforts to address their legitimate concerns within the available administrative and financial framework.
She also disclosed that directions have already been issued to the concerned authorities to examine the issues highlighted by the employees in their representations.
“Every possible effort will be made to address the issues that fall within the government’s purview,” the minister said, while urging the protesting employees to reconsider their decision and resume their responsibilities.
Itoo further appealed to the employees to ensure that the ongoing agitation does not adversely affect patients and the general public, particularly those dependent on government healthcare facilities.
The minister expressed hope that the NHM employees would respond positively to the government’s appeal and return to their duties while the authorities continue the process of examining and addressing their grievances.(KNC)