The JDA had earlier threatened to go on indefinite strike from January 31 midnight to press for their two-point demand––hike in stipend and implementation of senior residency scheme in the state.

The decision was taken after a marathon meeting between a 80-member delegation of the Junior Doctors and principal secretary, health, on Monday.

Sinha reportedly told the delegation that the government would study allowances and stipends being paid in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, West Bengal and other states.

After the meeting Sinha said as regards the demand for hike in stipend, a proposal would be sent to the cabinet soon. It will be implemented by April this year.

On the implementation of senior residency scheme in Bihar, he said a committee comprising experts would be formed which would submit its report within three months. The committee would comprise the members of Medical Council of India (MCI), principals and superintendents of different government medical colleges in the state and senior administrative officers of the department.

Meanwhile, Health Minister Ashwini Choubey, who on Saturday threatened to chop off the hands of the striking Junior Doctors on Monday softened his stand. He said that the government was sympathetic to the junior doctors’ demand and urged them not to go on strike in the interest of the people of the state. He said the government had earlier taken several measures to benefit doctors which included increase in retirement age and dynamic ACP.

On the other hand JDA President Dr Dheeraj said they are deferring the strike for three months but would be forced to change the decision if the government did not fulfil its assurance within the given time frame.

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