17 Dec 2018 | 10:39 PM UTC
Pakistan: Balochistan doctors to strike December 18-19
Doctors working at out-patient departments in Balochistan to launch a token strike December 18-19 to protest the abduction of a neurosurgeon in Quetta
Event
The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) and other medical organizations announced on Monday, December 17, that some doctors in Balochistan will go on strike from 15:00-17:00 (local time) on Tuesday, December 18, and Wednesday, December 19. Doctors working in out-patient departments (OPDs) at government-run hospitals are participating in the strike. The action was organized following the abduction of a neurosurgeon in the Shehbaz Town area of Quetta on Thursday, December 13. Medical organizations decided to hold the token strike after the government failed to locate the doctor within 48 hours. Similar actions are possible in the coming days and weeks if the doctors feel the government has not addressed their concerns.
Context
Unidentified gunmen kidnapped the neurosurgeon while he was on his way home from working at a private hospital. The PMA has called on the Balochistan government to introduce new security measures to protect doctors from being harmed or abducted.
Advice
Individuals in Balochistan are advised to monitor the situation, confirm doctor’s appointments, and avoid any potential protests.
