Indoor patients suffered immensely due to the strike enforced by around 300 doctors. About 550 doctors are currently working in the 600-bed hospital, sources said.

No patients were operated yesterday. However, the outdoor service of the hospital did not hamper much, sources added.

The stalemate began soon after the doctors received a letter saying their contracts will not be renewed.

Registrar, assistant registrar and consultant doctors have supported the strike, claimed the striking doctors.

Safiruddin, a resident of the city's Bashabo area, admitted his daughter yesterday morning.

"My daughter was supposed to undergo caesarian operation today. But now I am trying to admit my daughter to another hospital as the doctors here went on a strike for indefinite period," he said.

Hena Begum, 60, another patient admitted on May 23, told The Daily Star that she got panicked hearing the news of the strike and became more sick thinking what she will do if her condition worsen at night.

According to a press release issued on behalf of the medical officers and assistant registrars, emergency treatments would continue during the deadlock. However, new admission will not be held.

Birdem authorities also said emergency medical teams would ensure the emergency service.

When contacted Birdem Director Maj Gen (retd) Ziauddin Ahmed said he is not the person concerned for job regularisation. Birdem Management Board is responsible for it, he said.