Chennai, Dec 21 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu Health Minister, Ma. Subramanian, announced on Sunday that the state government is currently reviewing several demands put forth by the protesting contract nurses. He urged them to ensure their demonstrations do not compromise healthcare services.

In his address regarding the ongoing protests, Subramanian stated that while the nurses have a right to voice their concerns, it is essential that such protests are conducted responsibly.

"While they are entitled to protest, it is inappropriate to do so without prior notice. Those involved, along with their supporters, must acknowledge that this profession involves saving lives," he emphasized.

The minister noted that many of the contract nurses currently protesting were hired during the tenure of the late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa back in 2014.

These appointments, he explained, were made with the understanding that the recruits would work for two years, after which their positions would be regularized based on seniority and the establishment of new posts. However, he pointed out that no new batches were regularized for four to five years afterwards.

According to him, it was only after the DMK party came to power with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin that yearly regularizations began.

"To date, 3,783 nurses have been regularized, and another 169 are expected to receive their appointment orders on Tuesday," he announced.

In response to the protesters’ requests for additional job positions, Subramanian stated that policy decisions must be based on several factors, including the structure of the healthcare system, patient volume, and financial viability. New positions cannot be created without considering these elements, he noted.

He highlighted the government's efforts, stating that since the DMK government assumed office, 18,000 positions have been created, 35,000 employees have been regularized, and 45,000 personnel transferred through a transparent counseling process.

Subramanian also suggested that there might be political motivations behind the protests, especially in light of the upcoming elections.

"Some individuals are attempting to sway them during this election season. They must recognize the realities at hand," he cautioned.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to constructive dialogue, he assured that officials have already engaged with representatives of the protestors. While he acknowledged that legitimate demands would be addressed, he urged nurses to balance their right to protest with their responsibilities to patients and public health.