Medical JAC to launch black badge protests across Telangana from Wednesday

Doctors across Telangana will launch statewide black badge protests from January 7 against Government Order 229. The Medical Joint Action Committee said patient care will not be affected and warned of intensified protests if the government fails to withdraw the order

Hyderabad: The medical Joint Action Committee (JAC), comprising multiple doctors’ associations, on Tuesday announced that it would launch statewide black badge protests in all government medical colleges from Wednesday, January 7, against Government Order 229.

Government doctors across Telangana will wear black badges while performing their regular duties. Patient care will not be affected in any manner. This symbolic protest reflects the medical fraternity’s deep anguish and concern, while reaffirming its unwavering commitment to patient welfare and public health, the medical JAC said on Tuesday evening.

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The medical JAC made it clear that if the State government does not respond positively and withdraw the Government Order, the medical fraternity would be compelled to intensify the protest programmes in a phased, democratic and statewide manner, while continuing to safeguard patient care.

“This movement is not against the State government but in defence of autonomous medical regulation, ethical governance and the long-term interests of public health in Telangana,” it said.

The medical JAC urged the State government to immediately withdraw GO 229, uphold the High Court’s emphasis on maintaining elected members in decisive majority, and protect the autonomy of medical practice and patient safety.

The medical JAC comprises the Indian Medical Association Telangana State, Healthcare Reforms Doctors Association, Telangana Junior Doctors Association, Telangana Senior Residents Doctors Association, and Telangana Teaching Government Doctors Association.