5 Urgent Updates: RIMS Kadapa Workers on Hunger Strike
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
Andhra Pradesh: The indefinite hunger strike by sanitation workers at the Government Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Kadapa continued on Monday, with trade union leaders demanding the immediate reinstatement of workers allegedly dismissed by contractors.
Rayalaseema Trade Union City Secretary Madagalam Prasad visited the protest camp and expressed solidarity with the workers, stating that the termination of sanitation workers at the age of 50 was unjust and contrary to prevailing employment norms in the state.
RTU extends support to protesting workers
Addressing the sanitation workers at the protest site, Prasad said the workers’ agitation was justified as it concerned their livelihood and job security. He assured them of the full support of the Rayalaseema Trade Union in their struggle for reinstatement. He said the union stands firmly with the workers and will continue to support their efforts until a fair resolution is reached.
Concerns over early dismissal of workers
Prasad criticised the alleged dismissal of sanitation workers at the age of 50, pointing out that the retirement age for many government employees in the state is around 62 or 63 years.
He argued that removing workers from their jobs at a much earlier age, particularly those from economically weaker backgrounds, could leave their families without a stable source of income.
He also expressed concern over reports that workers were being questioned about their educational qualifications, stating that many sanitation workers come from disadvantaged backgrounds and depend on such jobs for their livelihood.
Allegations against contractors
The trade union leader alleged that contractors managing sanitation services were exerting undue pressure on workers and not considering their welfare.
He warned that continued neglect of workers’ grievances could lead to stronger protests and labour movements in the future.
Prasad urged the concerned authorities and contractors to address the issue promptly and reinstate the dismissed workers to avoid further escalation of the protest.
Protest to continue
Sanitation workers participating in the hunger strike reiterated their demand for reinstatement and job security. They said the protest would continue until their concerns are addressed by the authorities.
Union leaders stated that the movement could intensify if the issue remains unresolved, urging officials to initiate dialogue and find a solution at the earliest.
Where Medical Education Meets Community Care in Kadapa
Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Kadapa (RIMS Kadapa) is a government-run medical college located in Putlampally village near Kadapa city in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh, India. Established in 2006 by the Government of Andhra Pradesh, the institute was originally named Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences and later became known as Government Medical College, Kadapa. It was inaugurated on 27 September 2006 and began academic operations from 1 August 2006.
The campus sprawls over approximately 210 acres and is affiliated with Dr. YSR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada (formerly Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences), following its curriculum and examination framework. The college is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC), ensuring its medical degrees meet national standards.
Academically, RIMS Kadapa offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in medicine and allied health sciences. At the undergraduate level, the flagship course is MBBS, with an annual intake of around 175 students admitted through the NEET-UG examination. In addition to MBBS, the institute provides MD and MS postgraduate courses in various clinical and basic science disciplines, admitting students based on NEET-PG performance.
Beyond academics, the institute is attached to a tertiary-care teaching hospital that delivers comprehensive medical services to the community. This hospital functions as a crucial training ground for students, where they gain hands-on clinical experience across a range of specialties. It serves not only enrolled students but also the healthcare needs of people in and around the Kadapa region.
Over the years, RIMS Kadapa has developed essential facilities—including lecture halls, advanced laboratories, hostel accommodations, and a well-stocked library—to support both learning and research. Its position as a government medical institution makes it a key contributor to producing qualified healthcare professionals for Andhra Pradesh and beyond.
