Patiala medical college interns up in arms over low stipend

The issue of low stipend for medical college interns yet again took centre stage with interns from the 2020 batch at the Government Medical College threatening to go on a protest if the amount is not revised.

The interns have demanded a hike in stipend from Rs 15,000 to at least Rs 30,000 or on par with the central institution.

Expressing their grievances over the disparity, an intern said, “We are doing almost the same amount of work as first-year junior residents but are compensated with a mere Rs 15,000 for 12-hour shifts.”

The current stipend of Rs 15,000 per month has remained unchanged since 2019. The interns point out that the cost of living has risen drastically since, saying, “Rent, transport, food, and other essential expenses have become difficult to manage within this amount — especially considering the demanding hours and lack of time to pursue any part-time work or alternative sources of income.”

“We are not comparing our stipends to corporate salaries. We are simply asking for a fair revision that acknowledges the economic reality. Across India, many state governments have already taken steps to revise intern stipend. In comparison, Punjab remains far behind,” said another intern.

On Monday evening, the students assembled for a peaceful rally to press for their demands. “This was not a strike or boycott. It was a symbolic expression of our collective frustration and hope. We also place on record that this was our final ultimatum. If there was no satisfactory response post-rally, we will be compelled to begin a peaceful strike in the following days,” said one of the interns leading the protest.

The Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) has extended support to the cause and assured that no intern will face any academic or clinical penalty for attending the rally.

Patiala