New Delhi [India], December 12: Congress Lok Sabha MP Vijay Vasanth on Thursday submitted a notice to move an adjournment motion, seeking to discuss the issue of ‘non-payment and irregularities’ in the distribution of stipends to medical interns, postgraduate residents, and senior residents at medical colleges across India.
In his notice, the Congress MP highlighted the urgent need to address these financial concerns and emphasized the importance of ensuring the ‘safety and security of medical professionals,’ especially those working in rural and underserved areas.
Vasanth’s letter to the Lok Sabha Secretary-General stated, “I hereby give notice of my intention to ask for leave to move a motion for the adjournment of the house to discuss a matter of urgent importance. I draw attention to the serious issue of non-payment and irregularities in stipend disbursements to medical interns, postgraduate residents, and senior residents at medical colleges across India.”
He further explained that complaints from medical students and resident doctors revealed that many have not received their full stipends, with some institutions failing to pay any stipends at all. Moreover, several colleges are pressuring students to pay upfront fees with the false promise that their stipends would cover the costs. In some cases, students have even been coerced into returning their stipends under threat of career sabotage if they protest. Despite efforts by the National Medical Commission (NMC), many medical colleges remain non-compliant.
Vasanth’s letter also pointed out that according to the NMC, 27% of postgraduate students in private medical colleges do not receive any stipend, while 54% are paid less than their counterparts in government colleges.
In addition to addressing these financial issues, Vasanth stressed the urgent need to ensure the safety and security of medical professionals, particularly those serving in rural and underserved areas. He urged the government to take immediate action to ensure fair treatment for the medical community.
Meanwhile, Congress MP Manickam Tagore also submitted an adjournment motion notice in the Lok Sabha, seeking a discussion on the cancellation of the Tungsten mining project in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Tagore called on the Union government to respect the sentiments of the people of Tamil Nadu and revoke the mining rights.
The winter session of Parliament, which began on November 25, has seen frequent adjournments due to disruptions. The session is scheduled to run until December 20.