Odisha: Government cracks down on doctors’ strike, threatens to withhold salaries and even dismiss them from their jobs
Odisha: The state government has taken a tough stance regarding the ongoing doctors’ strike in Odisha. The Health and Family Welfare Department has issued instructions for strict action against medical officers participating in the strike. The department has clearly stated that doctors who do not return to duty will face action, including withholding salaries and terminating the services of contract doctors.
An official letter issued by the department states that members of the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA), doctors from the OMHS cadre, and some contract doctors have been boycotting health services in most government hospitals across the state since July 1. This strike, initiated by doctors over their pending demands, has affected the state’s health services.
The government letter states that health services in the state fall under the category of essential services, and therefore, such strikes are being taken seriously. The government, through a Home Department notification dated January 6, 2026, implemented the Odisha Essential Services (Maintenance) Act, 1988 (OESMA). Under this law, doctors and paramedical staff are not permitted to strike, as it directly impacts essential health services to the public.
The department also noted in its letter that the doctors’ strike is depriving the general public of health services, which the government has described as a serious and unacceptable situation. The administration states that this action not only violates service rules but also violates public rights.
The government further clarified that the doctors participating in the strike have also violated Rules 3 and 4 of the Odisha Government Servants’ Conduct Rules, 1959. Under these rules, government employees are expected to perform their duties honestly and regularly and avoid any activity that disrupts government services.
The Health Department has directed all concerned officials to identify medical officers of the OMHS cadre who are absent from duty and to withhold their salaries with immediate effect. This withholding will remain in effect until further orders. Additionally, contract doctors have been warned of termination if they are found absent from duty.
The government maintains that disruption of health services is a serious matter, as it directly impacts patients and the general public. Therefore, the administration does not want to show any leniency.
On the other hand, the striking doctors say that their demands have been pending for a long time and that it is difficult to continue working without their fulfillment. Although the government has made it clear that the door to dialogue is open, disruption of services will not be permitted under any circumstances.
Due to this entire development, the pressure on health services in government hospitals in the state has increased. Patients are facing difficulties in many places. The administration has directed to make alternative arrangements and continue emergency services.
Overall, the conflict between the Odisha government and the striking doctors has now reached a critical juncture, with the government calling for strict action, while the doctors remain adamant about their demands.