Tamil Nadu’s Health and Family Welfare Minister Ma Subramanian on Saturday attributed the recent unrest among nurses to systemic issues introduced during the AIADMK government, particularly the controversial contractual nursing system first implemented under late CM J. Jayalalithaa.
He said the current DMK administration inherited these challenges but has taken steps to stabilise the workforce.
Addressing the media after inaugurating a special medical camp in Saidapet, Subramanian said there are now virtually no vacant nursing posts, with only 169 positions still to be filled, and assured they will be completed within two days. He added that detailed discussions between the government and nursing representatives on Friday led to the calling off of the proposed strike, dismissing claims that the agitation was ongoing.
Highlighting progress made since the DMK took office, the minister noted that 3,783 contractual nurses have been regularised, 3,614 appointment orders issued, and 1,200 new nursing posts created to strengthen public healthcare. He also underscored ongoing public health initiatives under the state’s flagship Nalam Kaakkum Stalin programme, which has benefited over 11.42 lakh people through health camps across the state.
While the government maintains that reasonable demands will be addressed, it said one particular demand could not be accepted. Opposition leaders have continued to criticise the handling of the protests, arguing that key election promises to nurses remain unfulfilled.