Nurses Take a Stand: Hunger Strike Sparks Detention Controversy

Over 550 nurses protesting for permanent employment and other benefits were detained after a hunger strike. Despite release, protests continued, organized by the Tamil Nadu Nurses Development Association. Nurses criticize the DMK government for not fulfilling earlier promises on employment regularization and demand equal pay and maternity leave.

In a dramatic protest, more than 550 nurses were detained following a hunger strike aimed at securing permanent employment status and other benefits, according to police reports on Friday.

The confrontation unfolded Thursday night when nurses, refusing to disperse, were apprehended. They were subsequently released at the Kelambakkam bus terminus early Friday morning.

This protest, mobilized by the Tamil Nadu Nurses Development Association, involved almost 600 nurses from diverse districts. Appointed in 2015, nurses were assured permanent employment post a two-year tenure, yet criticize the current government for not upholding these promises, demanding equal pay and maternity leave.

(With inputs from agencies.)