The doctors went on a state-wide strike in response to a call given by Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) to extend support to JJ Hospital resident doctors who are demanding transfer of Dean Dr T P Lahane and his deputy for alleged harassment of doctors.
The doctors had gone on strike alleging that they were not allowed to perform operations and also protested against the Dean's behaviour towards them.
The HC was hearing a petition filed by social activist Afak Mandaviya who sought immediate withdrawal of strike by doctors as patients were put to hardship and ran the risk of losing their lives because of non-availability of medical services due to the agitation.
The judges asked MARD to call off their strike forthwith in public interest so that patients do not suffer and get immediate medical treatment.
More From This Section
The bench also questioned the doctors and MARD from going on an indefinite strike without approaching the grievance redressal mechanism.
To this, MARD replied that they had not approached the grievance redressal mechanism because the JJ Hospital Dean Dr T P Lahane, against whom they were protesting, was part of the mechanism committee.
The doctors also demanded that other members of the committee should include MARD President and General Secretary, and Directorate of Medical Education.
The high court, while agreeing to their proposal, however, said they would first have to ascertain whether the retired judges suggested by them were available and ready to hear the matter.
Accordingly, the bench asked the High Court Registry to find out whether the retired judges were ready to hear the doctors and the government on the issue.