Nearly 9,000 junior doctors have launched a phased statewide strike after a stipend revision due since January 2026 was not implemented. From August 17, emergency services across government medical colleges were halted, causing a major disruption in patient care.

Key Takeaways

  • 9,000 junior doctors stopped emergency services from August 17.
  • Stipend revision due since Jan 2026 remains unpaid.
  • APJUDA’s three‑phase strike now includes ICU and labour rooms.

Background of the Strike

The Andhra Pradesh Junior Doctors’ Association (APJUDA) began a phased strike on August 11, 2026, demanding a stipend revision that was due on January 1, 2026. The government’s failure to implement the 15% biennial increase has fueled growing frustration among doctors.

History of the Stipend Issue

Government Order No. 287, issued on December 17, 2009, mandates a roughly 15% stipend revision every two years. Updates were made in 2019 and 2024, but the 2026 revision remains pending despite an inflation rate of about 5% per year. Doctors are asking for a 30% hike, which the IMA AP State and a senior health official have labeled “abnormal.”

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Strike Phases

Phase I (August 11): Non‑emergency services suspended from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; emergency and ICU services continued.

Phase II (August 12 onward): Non‑emergency services extended to 9 a.m.–4 p.m., with a voluntary hunger strike. Emergency services remained operational.

Phase III (from August 17): Emergency services, including ICU, casualty and labour rooms, were withdrawn, leaving patients without critical care.

Additional Demands

Beyond the stipend, APJUDA seeks strict adherence to National Medical Commission (NMC) norms for hiring MSc and PhD holders, and opposes a proposal to raise the retirement age from 62 to 65, which they argue would limit opportunities for younger doctors.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that prolonged disruption of emergency services can lead to increased mortality rates and undermine public trust in the healthcare system, pressuring the state government to negotiate a swift resolution.

Adequate compensation for doctors is essential for a stable and effective health system.
Did You Know?: A similar doctor‑pay protest occurred in Andhra Pradesh in 2019, which was resolved after the government approved a 15% increase.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How will the strike affect patients? With emergency departments closed, critical cases may face treatment delays, potentially increasing mortality.
  • What actions has the government taken so far? The government offered a modest 3% hike for postgraduate doctors and 5% for house surgeons, falling short of APJUDA’s 30% demand.