MBBS Strike: Unbearable Heat and No AC at ESIC Medical College

First-year MBBS students at ESIC Medical College have initiated a strike, citing a severe lack of essential infrastructure and basic facilities on campus. The protest, involving all 50 students in the first batch, highlights unbearable learning conditions due to non-air-conditioned lecture halls during temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.

Students report that the absence of clean drinking water and inadequate laboratory equipment is significantly impacting their medical training. They lament paying Rs 1.25 lakh annually for an education that does not provide fundamental necessities. Despite repeated appeals to the administration, students claim no substantial action has been taken until the current strike.

ESIC Medical College Dean, Dr. Harnam Kaur, stated that the academic block was not designed for central air-conditioning. However, she assured that split ACs are being installed and should be operational within ten days. Temporary arrangements have been made by shifting classes to the centrally air-conditioned ward building. Dr. Kaur also asserted that laboratories are fully functional and drinking water is available, with plans to increase water cooler availability in designated areas.