Kerala private hospitals urge state to end UNA-led nurses' strike
India
Private hospitals in Kerala want the state to step in and end an ongoing nurses' strike led by the United Nurses's Association (UNA).
Hospital groups say the protest did not follow the required 14-day notice and are asking for a law to keep essential services running.
The strike has disrupted about 20 hospitals, but emergency care is still available.
UNA's Jasmine Shah clarifies ₹32,700 demand
Hospitals argue that UNA's demand for a 40,000-rupee basic salary is too high and could push up treatment costs.
UNA leader Jasmine Shah clarified they are actually seeking a gross salary of 32,700 rupees from private hospitals, not 40,000 rupees.
The Kerala Private Hospitals's Association also pointed out that nursing salaries have improved over time, but said more needs to be done.