Doctors across Telangana to hold black badge protest on January 7 against G.O. 229

Doctors across Telangana will begin a Statewide black badge protest from Wednesday, in opposition to Government Order Ms. No. 229, raising concerns that the move threatens the autonomy and democratic functioning of the Telangana Medical Council (TGMC). As part of the protest, doctors will wear black badges while continuing their regular duties, with the associations stating clearly that patient care will not be affected in any manner.

The protest has been announced by the Medical Joint Action Committee (JAC), which comprises the Indian Medical Association (IMA)-Telangana State, Healthcare Reforms Doctors Association, Telangana Junior Doctors Association, Telangana Senior Residents Doctors Association and the Telangana Teaching Government Doctors Association. 

G.O. Ms. No. 229, issued by Health Secretary Christina Z. Chongthu on December 22, provides for the appointment of eight ex-officio members to the Telangana Medical Council, including three IAS officers, with the remaining drawn from among the heads of various medical departments. At present, the council has a strength of 25 members, comprising 13 elected representatives, six government-nominated members, two university nominees and four ex-officio members. With the issuance of the new order, the effective strength of the council increases to 29.

Describing the protest as symbolic, the JAC said the black badge campaign reflects the deep concern and anguish of the medical fraternity while reaffirming its commitment to patient welfare and public health. “The agitation is not directed against the government but is aimed at safeguarding autonomous medical regulation, ethical governance and long-term public health interests in the State,” they said.

In an appeal to the Telangana government, the JAC has demanded the immediate withdrawal of G.O. 229 and called for adherence to the High Court’s emphasis on maintaining a decisive majority of elected members in medical councils.