Postgraduate private trainee doctors on Sunday staged a protest at Shahbagh intersection in the capital, demanding an increase in their monthly stipend to Tk 50,000 from Tk 25,000.
The demonstration significantly disrupted traffic movement in the city. Many commuters were seen walking to their destinations.
The protesters initially gathered at BSMMU around 10:00am before marching to Shahbagh.
"We have been demanding a stipend hike for a long time," said one of the protesters who preferred not to be named.
Protesters claimed that their current stipend was inadequate due to the rising cost of living.
With soaring prices of essentials, Tk 25,000 was no longer enough, they said, demanding that the amount be increased to Tk 50,000.
The allowance was raised to Tk 25,000 from Tk 20,000 one year ago by the past government. The raise was insufficient, protesters said. They argue that the allowance should be adjusted according to the current market situation.
Protesters also highlighted how their earlier protests for salary increases had been politicised under the immediate past Awami League government, by labelling them as belonging to Jamaat-Shibir.
They will not allow any form of discrimination, protesters said, pledging to continue protest until their demand is met.
talhabinhabib@yahoo.com