Healthcare services across Assam in disarray as NHM workers' strike enters third day

The ongoing strike by National Health Mission (NHM) workers, on March 6, entered its third day, causing widespread disruption across Assam’s healthcare services. 
 

The strike, organised under the banner of the All Assam Health and Technical Welfare Association, has affected medical facilities in multiple districts leading to growing concerns over patient care.
 

The protesting workers are demanding the regularisation of NHM employees through a special recruitment drive to fill both existing and newly created vacancies. They are also calling for the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission recommendations to ensure fair salary structures and better financial security for workers. 
 

Additionally, the association is urging the enforcement of the Supreme Court’s 2013 verdict (213/2013) mandating “Equal Pay for Equal Work.”
 

The strike, which began with a Pen Down Demonstration on March 4, has seen significant participation across the state. 
 

In Kokrajhar, healthcare services have been severely impacted, with workers from Kokrajhar Medical College, Kokrajhar RNB Civil Hospital and health centers in Dotoma, Gosaiagaon, Balajan, and Kochugaon staging sit-in demonstrations to amplify their demands.
 

Hundreds health workers of Kokrajhar Medical College and Hospital gathered in front of the  campus holding placards and raising slogans for their rights. The demonstrations have drawn attention to the precarious working conditions of NHM employees, many of whom serve in critical roles but face job insecurity and wage disparities compared to permanent staff.
 

Patients in affected areas are experiencing delays in receiving treatment, and health officials are struggling to maintain essential services. Despite the growing crisis, the striking workers remain steadfast, vowing to continue their protest until their demands are met.