Himachal Pradesh, 28 May. 108, 102 ambulance parked at zonal hospital Mandi during one day strike on Wednesday, 28 May. Photo Hindustan Times/Birbal Sharma
The emergency ambulance services in Himachal Pradesh have experienced significant disruption as staff members of the 102 and 108 services initiated a statewide strike on February 1, 2025. This action was taken in response to grievances regarding wages and the implementation of essential labour laws. Employees, including drivers and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), stated their concerns were not being addressed by the private operators overseeing the ambulance services.
The strike was organised by the Himachal Pradesh Ambulance Service Employees Association, leading to numerous ambulances being taken off the roads. Balak Ram Sharma, the General Secretary of the association, highlighted that around 1,200 to 1,300 employees joined the strike, severely affecting emergency response across various districts.
Sharma expressed frustration that despite court mandates regarding minimum wages, the operating company has allegedly failed to comply. He noted, “This is a matter of shame,” emphasising the need for accountability in the execution of labour laws and wage structures.
Key Concerns Outlined by the Striking Employees
The staff’s demands include enforcement of minimum wages, adherence to labour laws, and contributions to the Employees’ Provident Fund from both employers and employees. Additionally, they seek paid leave benefits and the reinstatement of workers allegedly dismissed for participating in earlier protests.
Sharma referenced a court ruling from 2018 that mandated a minimum take-home pay of ₹15,000 per month until a permanent wage structure could be established. He accused the company’s Managing Director of failing to implement these crucial orders, insisting that negligence must be addressed to prevent further harm to the workforce.
Concerns about workplace dynamics also emerged, with Sharma alleging that employees involved in union activities faced retaliation through unjust terminations, while those accused of misconduct remained unchallenged. He labelled it an attempt to undermine the workers’ movement.
Impact on Emergency Healthcare Services Across the State
The ongoing strike has alarmingly affected emergency healthcare services in the region. Emergency Medical Technicians, including Meera, who works at Civil Hospital Alni, articulated the challenging work conditions faced by the staff. She reported long working hours, which can range from 12 to 15 hours daily, while highlighting that their wages remain insufficient for supporting their families.
The employees have called attention to the plight of workers who are allegedly subjected to exploitation, with some facing termination or reassignment for voicing legitimate concerns. Meera stated, “We will continue our struggle until our demands are met,” expressing the determination of the workforce amid adversity.
In light of the strike, some government personnel have reportedly been assigned to maintain a minimal level of emergency services. However, despite prior notifications regarding the strike, union leaders claim that no discussions have occurred between the state government or the company management regarding resolving the issues.
As the strike enters its critical phase, workers have stated that it may continue for at least five more days unless the government intervenes to facilitate dialogue and resolve the ongoing disputes. The association has warned of intensifying protests should negotiations not commence soon.
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