Sat Jan 04 07:03:21 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Doctors End Arts Festival Boycott After Government Assurances
**Thiruvananthapuram, January 4, 2025** – Government doctors in Thiruvananthapuram have withdrawn their threat to boycott medical services at the Kerala State School Arts Festival following assurances from the state government. The Kerala Government Medical Officers’ Association (KGMOA) had initially planned to abstain from providing round-the-clock medical care at the festival, citing the unfair suspension of a colleague.
The association accused the government of suspending the doctor based on unsubstantiated media reports alleging private medical practice. KGMOA demanded a fair hearing and proper inquiry before any disciplinary action. The potential boycott caused concern among organizers, as the festival involves 10,000 students and requires medical facilities across 25 venues.
Following discussions with the Health Secretary, the KGMOA announced it would cooperate, stating that their concerns would be addressed. The Health Services Director, K.J. Reena, earlier confirmed that all medical arrangements were in place, despite not receiving official notification of the boycott. The reversal comes amidst criticism faced by Kochi authorities for lacking adequate medical support during a recent Guinness Book of Records event.
First Piper 