Junior doctors of two government hospitals in Kolkata, who had been on an indefinite strike since August 4, decided to resume work in the emergency and indoor departments from tonight, after the health department assured them that their stipend will be increased soon.

However, they made it clear that they still stick to their word that they would resort to another agitation again if the increased stipend was not up to their satisfaction.

State finance minister Asim Dasgupta said that the recommendation of the state’s health ministry for an increase in the stipend of the junizor doctors is awaited.

“As soon as I receive the recommendation, an order will be issued immediately for its implementation from September 1,” Dasgupta said in Kolkata today.

A three-member expert committee, set up by the health department, is working on a rational increase in the stipend structure of junior doctors in government hospitals and medical colleges of West Bengal.