Dr. Govinda KC Warns of Renewed Hunger Strike Over Medical Sector Reforms

Kathmandu. Medical sector reform crusader Prof. Dr. Govinda KC has warned of resuming a hunger strike again demanding that the medical education and health services be freed from commercial interests. Issuing a press release today, Friday, Dr. KC has given the government an ultimatum until the upcoming July 21 to address his demands. 

Dr. KC has demanded the immediate revocation of political appointments made to private educational institutions and regulatory bodies, which are in conflict of interest against established rules and values.

He has demanded that the proposal to cut scholarships through the Medical Education Commission and increase seats in private colleges that do not meet the criteria be stopped immediately, and the legal provision to make medical education completely non-profit by 2028 within the spirit of the 'National Medical Education Act, 2075' be implemented soon. 

In the press release, Dr. KC expressed serious concern over the direct influence of private medical mafias and their representatives in determining Nepal's medical education and health policy. Recalling that even in developed capitalist countries, health and medical education sectors are operated under government ownership or non-profit trust, he pointed out that in Nepal, private medical, dental, and nursing colleges that do not meet even the minimum standards dominate.

He warned that if the government does not address his legitimate demands by July 21, he will be forced to revive the strong protest programs, including the hunger strike, that were postponed in the past.