Karachi, Pakistan – The Young Doctors Association (YDA) of Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) organized a black ribbon protest in response to allegations of biased recruitment practices and unfair promotion processes affecting faculty members at JPMC. The protest, which saw the active participation of numerous doctors from various wards, was aimed at expressing solidarity with senior faculty members who have reportedly been overlooked for promotions despite their merit and dedication.
The YDA strongly condemned the irregularities in the recruitment and promotion of consultants, which they claim have been carried out under the direct supervision of Dr. Amjad Siraj Memon, the Vice Chancellor of Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU). According to the YDA, these practices have resulted in the mistreatment of qualified and experienced faculty members, thereby damaging the credibility of JPMC and the quality of medical education and patient care provided at the institution.
Dr. Muhammad Ali, Spokesperson for YDA JPMC, and Dr. Shehryar Shaikh, a senior cabinet member of YDA JPMC, led the protest alongside Dr. Abdul Salam, Dr. Mukhtyar, Dr. Naik, and other senior doctors, calling for the introduction of a fair and transparent recruitment process. The group has emphasized the need for an impartial evaluation of faculty members, asserting that biased decisions are negatively affecting the overall performance of JPMC.
The YDA has called for immediate intervention from several key figures, including Chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Health Minister of Sindh, the Chief Secretary, and the Health Secretary of Sindh. They have urged these authorities to take swift action to address what they describe as a grave injustice.
In a statement, the YDA reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the rights of doctors and ensuring the integrity of the medical profession is upheld. “The actions of those in charge are not just harming faculty members, but they are also harming the quality of care that our patients receive,” said Dr. Ali. “We will not stand idly by as our medical community is treated unfairly.”
As the protest gained momentum, the YDA announced that they are coordinating with consultants and senior faculty members to strategize further action on this issue. The association has indicated that they will continue to push for reforms and seek justice through all available means.
The protest also saw participation from various medical associations and groups, including the Young Doctors Associations from other provinces, the College of Physicians & Surgeons Pakistan, and other medical and health organizations, showing widespread support for the cause.
The YDA remains resolute in its fight for fairness, transparency, and accountability in the recruitment and promotion processes at JPMC, as well as in the broader healthcare system in Sindh and across Pakistan.
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