Doctors vs Govt: Rajasthan medical row

The Rajasthan Medical College Teachers' Association (RMCTA) has intensified its protests against the state government’s plan to allow lateral entry of non-teaching doctors into faculty positions. The protests have entered their 11th consecutive day, with faculty members from major medical colleges in Jaipur, Ajmer, Kota, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Bikaner participating.

The RMCTA alleges that the government has deliberately created a shortage of faculty by halting regular promotions, which, if conducted according to National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines, would have filled all vacancies. The association also criticizes the government’s inaction regarding the Rajasthan Public Service Commission, leading to politically motivated appointments and stalled recruitments.

The association contends that appointing unqualified doctors to teaching roles undermines the quality of medical education and threatens rural healthcare services. In response, RMCTA has announced a major rally and strike on September 23, 2025, involving doctors from various key hospitals and institutions.

The ongoing hunger strike entered its third day on Saturday, with teachers boycotting work for two hours. RMCTA has warned of intensified protests, including mass resignations and suspension of academic responsibilities, if their demands are not met.