ESIC Nurses in Hyderabad Issue 14-Day Strike Notice Over Harassment Allegations

The nursing personnel stationed at the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) Medical College and Hospital and the associated Super Speciality Hospital in Sanathnagar, Hyderabad, have formally declared an upcoming 14-day strike. This labor action highlights serious, ongoing concerns regarding workplace environment and administrative conduct.

The ESIC Nursing Officers’ Union, Telangana, issued the official strike notice citing a range of unresolved grievances. Their statement details complaints concerning persistent harassment, intimidation, and the victimization of nursing staff members. Furthermore, the union has raised issues regarding arbitrary administrative decisions, the denial of fundamental staff welfare facilities, and claims of improper interference in the management of nursing administration duties.

Reasons Behind the ESIC Nursing Strike Notice

Specific allegations have been brought forward by nursing staff members regarding sexual harassment and the objectification of employees by senior-level officials. In response to these serious claims, it has been noted that at least one formal complaint has been escalated to the SC/ST Commission. The ESIC Nursing Officers’ Union maintains that they have repeatedly sought to engage the office of the Dean through written correspondence, formal meetings, and direct discussions to address their concerns about service conditions, workplace safety, and disciplinary procedures.

While the nursing body expressed a preference for constructive dialogue to ensure that patient care remains uninterrupted, they asserted that the lack of corrective action from the hospital administration has led to deep-seated dissatisfaction and a significant loss of institutional confidence. As the situation remains tense, the administration has begun reviewing the allegations. Hospital Dean Dr. Shirish Kumar Chavan indicated that the facility has established appropriate committees to thoroughly investigate the claims of harassment.

Regarding other operational demands, management has noted a divergence in perspectives. The nursing staff has requested adjustments to shift timings, specifically favoring morning shifts between 9 am and 4 pm, while suggesting that contract personnel handle alternative shifts. Dr. Chavan explained that such a scheduling structure is not feasible, noting that nursing officers are required to work on a rotating shift basis. Additionally, requests for a dedicated resting lounge and a separate administrative office for the union were deemed impractical by the hospital leadership, who emphasized that nursing officers must prioritize their presence in designated duty areas to provide consistent services to patients. The upcoming strike now hangs in the balance as both parties face a stalemate over these critical workplace and administrative issues.

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