Jehangir staffers firm on strike

PUNE: The strike by 360 employees of the Jehangir Hospital entered the third day on Friday.
The employees, mainly housekeeping and cleaning staff belonging to class III and class IV, began their strike on May 1 following the failure of talks between the hospital management and the workers’ union over revision in salary and other perks.
The indefinite strike has slightly hampered patient care. The hospital authorities have filled the gap by roping in other staff members.
The agitating hospital employees, who are members of a recognised workers’ union, have been demanding a revision in salary and other perks.
“We want a hike in salary, free medical care for our dependent family members, adequate holidays and increase in retirement age from the current 58 years to 60 years,” said Manisha Dhiwar, the president, Jehnagir Hospital Kamgar Union.
“The workers who are on strike comprise housekeeping staff, ward boys, aayas, nurses, technicians and front office staff. We will not call off the strike till our demands are met,” Dhiwar said.
George Eapen, the chief executive officer (CEO) and director of Jehangir Hospital, said, “Despite the workers’ strike, the hospital is functioning smoothly. The admin staff and other employees have started pitching in to ensure that patient care services are not hampered.”
Commenting on the workers’ demands, Eapen said, “We have already revised some of their terms and conditions at a satisfactory level. However, some of their demands are unreasonable.”
“This strike is illegal as the matter is under consideration in the labour court. The next hearing is on May 6,” he added.