Protest to affect select hospitals as union demands ₹40,000 minimum salary; management warns of strict action
Private hospital nurses in Kerala resumed their strike on March 27 after negotiations over wages failed to produce an agreement. The protest follows multiple rounds of conciliation efforts facilitated by the High Court, which were unable to bridge differences between hospital managements and the nurses’ union.
The strike is expected to impact services in at least 26 hospitals where wage disputes remain unresolved.
Key Announcements / Highlights
The agitation is being led by the United Nurses Association (UNA), which is demanding a minimum monthly salary of ₹40,000 for nurses employed in private hospitals.
Union leaders said the strike will be limited to institutions that have not agreed to revised pay structures. They noted that many hospitals in the state have already reached settlements, allowing services to continue normally in those facilities.
Hospital management groups, however, have opposed the demand, maintaining their current wage framework and warning of possible disciplinary action if the strike continues.
Official Statement
UNA State President Jasmine Shah said the protest would be selective and aimed only at hospitals where negotiations remain unresolved. He added that patients could seek care at institutions where agreements have been reached, minimising disruption.
Hospital management representatives have taken a firm stance, indicating that strict action may be taken against participating staff and warning that operations could be affected if the situation escalates.
Context / Background
The dispute highlights ongoing concerns about pay and working conditions in Kerala’s private healthcare sector. Nurses’ unions have repeatedly called for standardised wage structures, citing disparities across institutions.
The Kerala High Court had intervened earlier to facilitate discussions between the two sides. Despite several rounds of talks, no consensus was reached on salary revisions.
Healthcare workers’ protests over wages are not new in the state, where the private sector plays a significant role in service delivery.
Public Impact
The strike may affect patient care in the identified hospitals, particularly if staffing levels are reduced. However, the union has said that services in hospitals where agreements are in place will remain unaffected.
Patients may need to plan treatment at alternative facilities to avoid inconvenience during the protest period.
Conclusion
With negotiations stalled, the resumption of the strike reflects continuing tensions between nurses and hospital managements over pay. Further discussions or intervention may be required to reach a resolution and ensure uninterrupted healthcare services in the state.
Input & Images: Hindusthan Samachar
Edited by Manten Sasank
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Last Updated on: Friday, March 27, 2026 2:22 pm by Mantena Sasank | Published by: Mantena Sasank on Friday, March 27, 2026 2:22 pm | News Categories: India