The state-run Cama and Albess Hospital in South Mumbai came to a standstill for a few hours Tuesday morning after the nursing staff struck work and staged a protest to oppose the medical superintendent’s (MS) instructions to participate in ‘Swachhata Abhiyaan’ during their work hours. The protest was called off after Medical Education Director Dr Pravin Shringare personally visited the hospital to discuss the issues. The nurses also demanded the removal of MS Dr Rajshri Katke. “We have taken their complaints and a discussion will be held with the medical education secretary to take appropriate action,” Shringare told Newsline. A nurse, on condition of anonymity, said: “The superintendent asked us to participate in ‘Swachhata Abhiyaan’ on Saturdays. While we have no issue in becoming a part of it, it is difficult to manage patients as well as such activities during working hours. Prime Minister Modi has not asked hospitals to stop attending to patients to clean the campus.” The nurses alleged that Katke herself posed in front of the camera but never participated in sweeping the premises. The Cama Hospital mostly receives maternal and pediatric cases. According to staffers, all doctors, nurses and class IV employees have been instructed to sweep as a part of the campaign. “We are already struggling with staff shortage. There is no time left with doctors and nurses for such activities,” a sweeper said. Katke, who took charge of the hospital in 2010, said: “The nurses resumed work later during the day. They were unhappy when they were asked to help in cleaning the hospital. The matter will, however, be resolved soon. I have till now not spoken to them directly about their problems.” mumbai.newsline@expressindia.com
