108 ambulance personnel announce hunger strike over long-pending work demands
108 ambulance personnel across Tamil Nadu have announced a statewide hunger strike to be held in Coimbatore on January 30, highlighting unresolved issues related to wages, working conditions and the future control of the emergency medical service. The protest has been called after repeated appeals to the State government failed to result in any clear assurance or policy decision.
Drivers and pilots working under the 108 ambulance service said the decision was taken after months of waiting for a response from authorities. They stated that while their work involves life-saving emergencies, their concerns continue to be overlooked despite formal representations and discussions.
The hunger strike will be organised under the banner of the Tamil Nadu 108 Ambulance Progressive Workers Federation. Union representatives said the protest is intended to draw public attention to the conditions under which ambulance staff operate and the uncertainty surrounding their employment status.
108 ambulance personnel push for government takeover and regularisation
One of the primary demands raised by the workers is the complete takeover of the 108 ambulance service by the Tamil Nadu government. The service, launched in 2008, is currently operated through private agencies under government supervision. Workers argue that this model has resulted in unstable employment, delayed salaries and inconsistent benefits.
According to union representatives, thousands of ambulance drivers and pilots remain contractual employees despite having served for several years. They want all existing workers to be regularised and brought under direct government administration to ensure job security and uniform service conditions.
The personnel said that emergency medical services should function as a fully public system, given their critical role in saving lives during accidents, medical emergencies and disasters. They believe government control would improve accountability and ensure better working standards.
The workers also raised concerns over salary payments. They alleged that wages are often disbursed in two or three instalments each month, creating financial stress for employees who depend on regular income to support their families. They demanded that salaries be credited in full and on time, without delays.
Another major issue highlighted was the reduction in the annual wage hike. While a 16% increase was granted in 2024, the increment for 2025 was reduced to 10%. The personnel are demanding that the remaining 6% be restored, stating that the cost of living continues to rise while their earnings do not keep pace.
108 ambulance personnel warn of escalation if issues persist
In addition to wage concerns, the ambulance staff demanded the implementation of an eight-hour work schedule in line with labour laws. They said extended shifts and unpredictable working hours affect both physical health and alertness, which are crucial in emergency response situations.
Warning of further action, the workers announced that if full salaries are not credited by February 1, they will boycott biometric attendance from that date. Union leaders said this step would be taken reluctantly, but only if their demands continue to be ignored.
The personnel also announced plans for a large rally in February. The march is expected to begin from the DMS complex in Chennai and proceed to the Chief Minister’s residence. Through the rally, workers aim to seek direct intervention from the government and a clear policy announcement addressing their demands.
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Expressing disappointment, union representatives said no formal statement has been made so far by the Chief Minister regarding the future of the 108 ambulance service or the welfare of its workers. They stressed that ambulance personnel remained on duty even during the pandemic and natural disasters, often working under extreme pressure.
The workers clarified that emergency services will not be disrupted during the hunger strike, stating that patient care remains their priority. However, they warned that continued silence from the authorities would leave them with no choice but to intensify protests in the coming weeks. Also Read: ECI failed in SIR Draft Rolls as Mass Deletions Surface Across Tamil Nadu
Conclusion
The planned hunger strike by 108 ambulance personnel reflects growing frustration over unresolved employment and service issues. As the protest date approaches, attention is now on the State government to respond before the situation escalates further.
