Kerala Nurses’ Strike: Why they are protesting, key demands and what will be affected

A section of nurses employed in private hospitals across Kerala launched an indefinite strike on Wednesday, demanding a minimum monthly salary of Rs 40,000 and immediate implementation of pending wage assurances.

The protest has been organised by the United Nurses Association (UNA), which also staged a march to the state secretariat as part of its agitation.

Nurses’ Salary Revision Pending Since 2018

According to the protesting nurses, their salaries were last revised in 2018 and have not kept pace with rising living costs.


They allege that although the Kerala government issued orders for a salary hike in 2023 following earlier protests led by the UNA, the revised pay structure has not been effectively implemented across private hospitals.

Protesters claim the delay has created widespread dissatisfaction among nurses working in the private healthcare sector.

Demand for Uniform Pay Structure in Private Hospitals

One of the key demands of the striking nurses is the introduction of a clear and uniform wage system for private hospital staff, in line with Nursing Council regulations.

A protesting nurse told reporters that pay varies significantly between hospitals, depending on individual management decisions.

“The condition of nurses in the private sector is pathetic in the state. They are receiving different salaries according to the decisions of respective hospital managements,” she said.

The association has called for fixing the basic monthly pay at Rs 40,000 to ensure fair compensation and financial stability.

Brain Drain Concerns in Kerala’s Nursing Sector

The protesters also expressed concern about a growing exodus of skilled nurses from Kerala.

They argue that inadequate salaries and limited career prospects are pushing qualified and experienced professionals to seek opportunities abroad, where pay and working conditions are often considered better.

“Nursing is increasingly becoming commercialised. The sector is witnessing a brain drain, with many professionals migrating overseas in search of better salaries and living standards,” a protester stated.

Impact of the Strike on Private Hospitals

The strike is expected to affect the routine functioning of private hospitals across the state. However, organisers have assured that emergency services will not be disrupted.

Healthcare authorities and hospital managements are yet to announce any breakthrough in negotiations, while discussions between the government and union representatives are anticipated in the coming days.

The ongoing protest has once again highlighted the broader debate over pay parity, labour rights and working conditions in Kerala’s private healthcare system.

Inputs from PTI