Mehbooba Mufti, the former J&K chief minister, joined medical interns on an overnight vigil at Government Medical College, Srinagar, as their protest entered its third day across the Valley. The medical interns, who have been on strike since Tuesday, are demanding a significant increase in their monthly stipends, citing long and demanding hours.

The PDP chief's visit to the hospital was a show of solidarity with the striking doctors, who are seeking a revision of their monthly stipend from Rs 12,000 to Rs 30,000. Mufti described the situation as "painful" to witness, highlighting the exhaustion and sacrifice that medical interns endure while caring for patients.

Read More: Kargil Democratic Alliance supports citizens’ march to mark

"these young doctors backbone our

"These young doctors are the backbone of our healthcare system," Mufti said. "Their dedication cannot be met with neglect. A government that expects them to serve with sacrifice must also respect their dignity." She appealed to J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to meet with the students and resolve their issues.

The medical interns have been protesting for three days, observing night vigils at their respective hospitals. They argue that the current stipend of Rs 12,000 is insufficient, even considering the cost of commuting to work. In contrast, stipends in other parts of the country are significantly higher, ranging from Rs 30,000 and above.

Congress has also urged the J&K Chief Minister to address the doctors' concerns. Tariq Hameed Karra, chief of the J&K Pradesh Congress Committee, wrote a letter to Omar Abdullah, advocating for increased stipends for medical interns due to their long hours and demanding work.

Also Read: Granite Businessman Arrested in Chennai POCSO Case

However, J&K Health Minister Sakina Itoo has said that the matter is under review, citing financial implications. While acknowledging the need to increase stipends, she argued that the strike would not affect patient care.

The doctors on strike have rejected this explanation, emphasizing that their concerns are legitimate and deserve attention from the government. The situation remains tense, with medical interns continuing their protest for a third day.