Chennai, 20 December (H.S.) : Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian on Saturday addressed the media regarding the ongoing nursing unrest, stating that the current crisis is a legacy of the previous AIADMK administration.

Speaking at the inauguration of a special medical camp near the Karaneeswarar Temple in Saidapet, the Minister asserted that the controversial system of contractual nursing was originally introduced during the tenure of late Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa. He highlighted that the DMK government inherited these systemic issues but has since worked diligently to stabilize the healthcare workforce.

The Minister clarified that the nurses' strike has been officially called off following extensive discussions held on Friday. He dismissed reports suggesting the protest was continuing, noting that while several reasonable demands would be addressed, certain requests concerning non-existent contractual posts could not be met.

Subramanian pointed out that since the DMK took office, three thousand seven hundred eighty-three contractual nurses have been regularized, and appointment orders have been issued for an additional three thousand six hundred fourteen nurses.

He further mentioned that twelve hundred new nursing positions were created to bolster the public health system, leaving only one hundred sixty-nine vacancies which are expected to be filled within two days.

Taking a direct swipe at AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami, the Health Minister remarked that it was ironic for those who initiated contractual appointments to now champion nurses' welfare.

He emphasized the success of state initiatives like the Nalam Kaakkum Stalin program, which has benefited over eleven lakh forty-two thousand people through comprehensive health camps.

According to the Minister, the state's proactive measures demonstrate a commitment to resolving the issues rooted in the previous regime's policies.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary