The Uttar Pradesh government has decided not to extend the contracts of 5,000 health professionals hired during the COVID-19 outbreak, sparking significant criticism. The state government did not extend the contracts of these health workers, who assisted in managing the health crisis, beyond June 30 and directed the District Chief Medical Officers not to renew the contracts of these employees.

According to local media reports, the decision has sparked outrage among the impacted employees and the larger community. As COVID-19 continues to pose a threat, these workers, once hailed as heroes for their life-saving efforts during the pandemic, are now unemployed. Health specialists advise that the community should prepare for possible disruption as these workers and their supporters plan to protest.

The National Health Mission of Uttar Pradesh initially engaged 7,000 contract workers, including class IV employees, lab technicians, staff nurses, computer operators, AYUSH doctors, and non-medical scientists. The termination of their contracts has sparked significant outrage, causing the Joint Health Outsourcing Contractual Employees Union to intervene. 

Sachchidanand Mishra, the union's state general secretary, has written to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, demanding a three-month extension for the workers. Mishra believes that the healthcare system might incorporate these professionals into vacant roles, ensuring their continuous contribution.

As the situation develops, the impacted health professionals and their union are planning protests to demand their reinstatement, emphasising the importance of their involvement in the ongoing fight against COVID-19.