Contract workers at PGIMER Chandigarh initiated a hunger strike to protest the non-payment of approximately Rs 55 crore in pending wages and dearness allowance since January 2024. They are also demanding improved service benefits, including maternity leave and medical benefits for women, a bonus, and parity with regular employees. The Joint Action Committee stated that a previous written assurance from the administration was not honored. PGIMER confirmed hospital services remained unaffected by the protest, which involved various categories of contract staff.