Chandigarh, March 8 -- The Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) management declined to participate in Friday's conciliation proceeding, overseen by the UT deputy chief labour commissioner. The hospital cited "intimidated and objectionable remarks" by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) chairperson, stating they would not participate in his presence.

The proceedings address five demands by the contractual workers' union under the JAC banner: regularisation of contract posts, clearing pending arrears, medical and canteen facilities, and bonus pay. In January, PGIMER sought a high court order to exclude the JAC chairperson from proceedings, which was denied. On January 30th, the JAC, comprising five contract worker...