Hyderabad, July 7: Contract healthcare workers staged protests at several government hospitals across Hyderabad on Tuesday, demanding better wages, timely salary payments, improved job security, and stricter implementation of labour welfare laws. The demonstrations, organized by employee unions, drew participation from nurses, laboratory technicians, sanitation workers, patient care assistants, and other contractual staff who play a vital role in the functioning of public healthcare facilities.
Protesters alleged that many contract employees have been facing delays in salary payments for several months, making it difficult for them to manage household expenses. They also raised concerns over wage disparities between permanent and contractual employees performing similar duties, calling for fair remuneration and equal treatment in the workplace.
Union representatives submitted memorandums to hospital authorities and state government officials, urging immediate intervention to address their long-pending demands. Among the key issues highlighted were regularization of eligible contract employees, implementation of statutory benefits such as provident fund and employee insurance, annual wage revisions, and improved working conditions.
The protesters emphasized that contractual healthcare workers have been at the forefront of delivering medical services during public health emergencies and continue to support government hospitals despite challenging work environments. They argued that their contribution to the healthcare system deserves greater recognition and adequate financial security.
Hospital services remained largely unaffected as unions ensured that emergency medical care continued during the demonstrations. However, employee organizations warned that larger statewide protests could be organized if the government fails to initiate meaningful discussions and provide a clear timeline for resolving their grievances.
Officials from the Health Department acknowledged receiving the workers’ representations and stated that the concerns would be examined in consultation with the relevant departments. They appealed to employees to maintain normal hospital operations while discussions continue.
The protests have once again highlighted the challenges faced by thousands of contractual healthcare workers employed in government hospitals across Telangana. Labour unions expressed hope that constructive dialogue between employee representatives and the state government would lead to practical solutions that improve working conditions while ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services for the public.
news as reported