Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Thursday urged doctors currently on strike to immediately withdraw their agitation, resume duties, and participate in discussions with the authorities.

Amid the ongoing protest by the Odisha Medical Services Association (OMSA), the government appealed to striking doctors to return to work in the interest of patient care.

Earlier, discussions were held between OMSA representatives and Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling, along with the Commissioner-cum-Secretary and the Director of Health Services.

Reiterating its position, the government called on doctors to withdraw their protest and continue serving patients as before. It also warned if the agitation disrupts healthcare services and affects the interests of patients, it may be compelled to take necessary action.

Official sources said the state government has already accepted several demands of the doctors and implemented measures such as cadre restructuring, Dynamic Assured Career Progression (DACP), special incentives, and place-based incentives. It has also introduced provisions to support doctors in pursuing higher education.

The government further assured once the doctors resume duties, it is fully prepared to hold constructive discussions on their remaining demands.