ESIC Sanathnagar nurses issue 14-day ultimatum, threaten indefinite strike over harassment

The ESIC Nursing Officers’ Union served a 14-day notice to the Director General of the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), alleging administrative harassment, intimidation and victimisation of nursing personnel at ESIC Medical College and Hospital, Sanathnagar in Hyderabad and warning of trade union action, including an indefinite strike, if grievances are not addressed.

In a representation dated June 22, the union levelled allegations against Deputy Medical Superintendent-I Ratna Gosain and Nursing Office In-charge Sadashiv B.M., accusing them of arbitrary functioning, intimidation and lack of transparency. It also alleged that explanations and memorandums had been issued without following established administrative procedures and claimed that a climate of fear and humiliation had developed within the nursing establishment.

Among the grievances listed were the issuance of memorandums to 16 Assistant Nursing Superintendents and 57 Senior Nursing Officers, alleged interference in trade union activities, bypassing of the nursing hierarchy, denial of welfare facilities such as dedicated lounges and changing rooms, and delays in promotions, Modified Assured Career Progression (MACP) benefits and Special Area Allowance cases.

The union also sought an independent inquiry into complaints against the Nursing Office In-charge. Seeking immediate intervention, the union demanded the removal of Sadashiv B.M. from nursing administration responsibilities and sought the transfer of both him and Ratna Gosain to ensure a fair and unbiased inquiry. It also called for withdrawal of the memorandums issued to supervisory nursing staff, restoration of the nursing administrative hierarchy, provision of staff welfare amenities and settlement of pending service-related issues.

The union stated that if no satisfactory response is received within 14 days, it would initiate trade union action under the Trade Union Act, 1926. Proposed measures include wearing black badges, holding a two-hour peaceful demonstration, mass casual leave and an indefinite strike.