Srinagar, August 31, 2026: Tariq Hameed Karra, President of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee, has written to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, supporting the demand for an increase in the stipend for medical interns. He stated that medical interns are a vital part of the healthcare system and shoulder significant responsibilities in hospitals during their mandatory internship.
Karra noted that these young doctors work long and grueling hours—including shifts lasting up to 36 hours—yet continue to contribute significantly to patient care and the smooth functioning of health services. He pointed out that the stipend paid to medical interns in Jammu and Kashmir is considerably lower than in many other parts of the country, where better financial remuneration is provided for similar responsibilities and working hours.
Karra urged the Chief Minister to listen to the grievances of the protesting interns, direct the concerned officials to engage with them, and ensure a speedy resolution. He remarked that positive intervention by the government would not only address the interns’ legitimate demands but also boost the morale of young doctors working in hospitals. Karra appealed to the government to take necessary steps on a priority basis to ensure a meaningful hike in the stipend for medical interns in Jammu and Kashmir.
