In a significant escalation of the ongoing doctors’ protest, the Odisha government has implemented a strict directive targeting medical officers of the OMHS cadre who have been boycotting health services throughout the state since July 1.
The Health & Family Welfare Department, in an official order (No. 18295/H dated July 2, 2026), instructed all relevant authorities—including MD NHM, MD OSMCL, Directors, Deans & Principals of government medical colleges, Superintendents, and CDM&PhOs—to immediately withhold the salaries of OMHS cadre doctors who are failing to fulfill their assigned duties. This order will remain effective until further notice from the government.
Contractual doctors participating in the strike and absent from their duties have been warned of potential termination following the issuance of due notice.
This action by the government comes despite the Odisha Essential Services (Maintenance) Act, 1988 being in effect, as confirmed by a Home Department order dated January 6, 2026. Officials emphasized that the boycott not only denies the public access to essential health services but also constitutes serious misconduct under Rules 3 and 4 of the Orissa Government Servants’ Conduct Rules, 1959.
Earlier on Thursday evening, the state government made a last-ditch appeal to the striking doctors, urging them to return to their duties and participate in constructive discussions.
Senior officials, including the Health Minister, Secretary, and Director of Health Services, had previously engaged in extensive discussions with representatives of the doctors before the strike commenced. The government had expressed its understanding of legitimate demands and assured that patient care would remain the highest priority.
However, with no resolution in sight and ongoing disruptions in most health institutions, the administration has shifted from appeals to decisive administrative measures.
The order, signed by the Commissioner-cum-Secretary to the Government, Health & Family Welfare Department, has been marked for immediate enforcement across all government health institutions.
This development signifies a notable hardening of the government’s position just two days into the boycott, indicating that the state will not accept any further disruption to essential public health services.
