Bhubaneswar, Sept 25: Despite the Odisha Emergency Services (Maintenance) Act (ESMA) and warnings of potential action, nursing staff across all state-run hospitals and healthcare centers in Odisha began a two-day cease work protest on Wednesday, demanding attention to their 10-point charter. Organized by the Odisha Nursing Employees’ Association (ONEA), the agitation could escalate into a full-scale strike from September 27 if their demands are not met.

For now, the protest excludes essential services such as emergency care, ICUs, and operation theaters.

Dr. Artabandhu Nayak, Director of Nursing, stated that ESMA, which is effective for six months from August 6, prohibits strikes, and strict action will be taken against those joining the agitation.

Meanwhile, Odisha Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling remains optimistic, saying discussions with the association are planned, and the government is hopeful for a peaceful resolution without disrupting healthcare services.

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