Mumbai News: KEM Hospital Workers Protest Over Unpaid Salaries

Class IV workers at the BMC-run KEM Hospital in Mumbai staged a peaceful protest by giving roses to the dean on Tuesday, demanding unpaid salaries and better working conditions.

Kem HospitalBmcUnpaid SalariesWorker ProtestPublic HealthcareReal Estate MumbaiApr 22, 2025

Mumbai News: KEM Hospital Workers Protest Over Unpaid Salaries
Real Estate Mumbai:The ongoing financial strain at the BMC-run KEM Hospital in Mumbai took a dramatic turn on Tuesday when Class IV workers, who are essential for the smooth functioning of the hospital, staged a unique protest. Instead of a typical sit-in or demonstration, these dedicated workers chose a more peaceful approach, known as ‘Gandhigiri,’ by presenting roses to the hospital's dean, Dr. Gita Nadkarni. This symbolic gesture was meant to highlight their plight and draw attention to the growing issue of unpaid salaries.

The protest, which garnered significant attention from the public and media, aims to bring immediate relief to the workers and address the systemic financial issues plaguing the hospital. Class IV workers, typically including attendants, sweepers, and other support staff, are crucial for the hospital's operations but are often the most marginalized. Many of these workers have not received their salaries for several months, leading to severe personal and financial hardships.

Dr. Nadkarni, while accepting the roses, assured the workers that their concerns would be addressed promptly. She acknowledged the importance of these workers and pledged to work with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to expedite the payment process. The BMC, which manages the KEM Hospital, has been facing budget constraints and administrative delays that have contributed to the backlog of unpaid salaries.

The KEM Hospital, one of the oldest and most prestigious medical institutions in Mumbai, has a long history of providing quality healthcare services to the city's residents. Founded in 1886, the hospital has been a cornerstone of public health in Mumbai, treating thousands of patients annually and training numerous medical professionals. However, the recent financial turmoil has raised concerns about the hospital's ability to continue operating at its current standards.

The protest has also highlighted the broader issues faced by public sector workers in India, who often bear the brunt of budget cuts and administrative inefficiencies. The situation at KEM Hospital is not unique, and similar protests have been reported from other municipal hospitals across the city. The workers' union, which represents the Class IV staff, has called for a comprehensive review of the hospital's financial management and an urgent intervention from the state government.

The Mumbai municipal commissioner has directed the BMC health department to conduct a thorough audit of the hospital's finances and to identify the reasons for the delay in salary payments. The health department has also been instructed to ensure that all outstanding salaries are paid within the next few weeks. In the meantime, the workers have agreed to resume their duties, but they remain vigilant and are prepared to take further action if their demands are not met.

The protest at KEM Hospital has reignited the debate on the importance of investing in public healthcare and the need for efficient financial management. As the city grapples with the challenges of providing quality healthcare to its rapidly growing population, the workers' demands for fair compensation and better working conditions are more critical than ever.

The KEM Hospital management and the BMC must work together to resolve the financial issues and ensure that the dedicated staff continue to provide the high-quality care that the hospital is known for. The community, too, has a role to play in supporting these workers and advocating for their rights. Only through a concerted effort can the hospital regain its reputation and continue to serve the people of Mumbai with the dedication and excellence it has always been known for.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Class IV worker at KEM Hospital?

Class IV workers at KEM Hospital include support staff like attendants, sweepers, and other essential personnel who are crucial for the hospital's operations but are often the most marginalized in terms of pay and benefits.

Why did the workers at KEM Hospital protest?

The workers at KEM Hospital protested due to unpaid salaries and the need for better working conditions. Many of these workers have not received their salaries for several months, leading to severe personal and financial hardships.

What is ‘Gandhigiri’ and how did the workers use it in their protest?

‘Gandhigiri’ is a term used to describe a peaceful protest inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence. The workers at KEM Hospital used this approach by giving roses to the hospital's dean to highlight their concerns without resorting to aggressive methods.

What is the role of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in managing KEM Hospital?

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is responsible for managing KEM Hospital, including overseeing its financial operations, ensuring the timely payment of salaries, and maintaining the hospital's standards of care.

What steps have been taken to address the workers' concerns?

The hospital's dean, Dr. Gita Nadkarni, has assured the workers that their concerns will be addressed promptly. The BMC has also directed the health department to conduct a thorough audit of the hospital's finances and to ensure that all outstanding salaries are paid within the next few weeks.

Related News Articles

Experience Luxury and Adventure: Runwal Hosts 2nd Edition of Audi Quattro Drive
Real Estate Mumbai

Experience Luxury and Adventure: Runwal Hosts 2nd Edition of Audi Quattro Drive

Runwal, a leading real estate developer in Mumbai, is gearing up to host the second edition of the Audi Quattro Drive at their 25 Hour Life property in Thane.

June 26, 2024
Read Article
Borivali's Luxury Real Estate Boom: Abhishek Bachchan's INR 15.42 Crore Investment
Real Estate

Borivali's Luxury Real Estate Boom: Abhishek Bachchan's INR 15.42 Crore Investment

Bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan's recent investment in six luxury apartments at Oberoi Sky City, Borivali, underscores the area's growing real estate appeal, with a total area of 4,894 sq. ft valued at INR 31,498 per sq. ft.

July 1, 2024
Read Article
Understanding Indexation in Long-Term Capital Gains Tax Calculations
Real Estate

Understanding Indexation in Long-Term Capital Gains Tax Calculations

The government's decision to withdraw the indexation benefit from long-term capital gains tax computations has sparked concerns among investors and taxpayers. Here's what it means and how it will affect you.

July 27, 2024
Read Article
Pune Metro Expansion: Key to Unlocking Real Estate Growth
Real Estate Pune

Pune Metro Expansion: Key to Unlocking Real Estate Growth

As Pune Metro expands, its impact on real estate is becoming increasingly evident. Developers are eyeing new areas for housing projects, transforming the city's landscape.

September 30, 2024
Read Article
Bengaluru Dominates with 28% of Flex Office Space Deals in India
Real Estate Pune

Bengaluru Dominates with 28% of Flex Office Space Deals in India

The Indian commercial real estate market has seen a significant increase in flex office space deals, with a total of 912 transactions recorded across eight major cities from 2018 to the third quarter of 2024. Bengaluru leads the pack, accounting for 28% o

October 30, 2024
Read Article
Real Estate Continues to主导印度投资首选资产类别: 报告
real estate news

Real Estate Continues to主导印度投资首选资产类别: 报告

印度的经济增长正在推动房地产行业的快速扩张,预计住宅市场到2029年将达到1.04万亿美元……

October 21, 2024
Read Article