In Karnataka, four thousand government doctors resigned en masse on Monday, despite a government plea to to defer the decision till they meet the Chief Minister on October 4.

The doctors are demanding a hike in payment and regularisation of their contracts.

"We also want time bound promotions and incentive for doctors who are working in rural and academic organisations," said H K Shyla Kumar, Treasurer of the Doctors' Association.

Patients will not be affected immediately, as the protesting doctors have agreed to serve a notice period till October 14. "From October 15, we will start practicing in private," one of the doctors said.

Meanwhile Principal Health
Secretary N Perumal maintained his plea, saying. "The Chief Minister wants them not to precipitate the matter, and wait until October 4."