KATHMANDU, Aug 16: A campaigner for medical education reform, Dr Govinda KC has warned to launch a Satyagraha.
On Friday, through a press release, Dr KC issued a warning that he will go on a hunger strike, presenting a six-point demand that includes addressing transitional justice, the appointment of a minister accused of the murder of Nirmala Kurmi, and the demand for action against a medical professional who is also a lawmaker.
In the press release, Dr KC mentioned that he has long been fighting to ensure quality, free, and affordable healthcare for all Nepalis, as well as equal access to medical education, along with advocating for justice and good governance.
Dr. Govinda KC warns of fresh hunger strike, demands action aga...
“The Medical Education Act and the commission, created through the relentless efforts of the Nepali people, have benefited students and the public," the statement reads, "However, due to the continuous self-serving interference and pressure from top political leaders, activists, and mafias, many of the achievements gained through struggle are at the risk of not being institutionalized and are in danger of being lost."
Dr KC also expressed concern over a recent Supreme Court ruling, stating that it undermines certain provisions of the Medical Education Act and its regulations, effectively rendering them ineffective, while overstepping the jurisdiction of the constitutional bench. The press release further states, "This decision by the Supreme Court will encourage dozens of hospitals, which do not meet the required standards and procedures to operate medical colleges, to do so in violation of the law.
It is also claimed that such services have become expensive, city-centered, and inaccessible to all lower- and middle-class citizens and deserving students from rural areas. "Therefore, a serious review of this decision is demanded," the statement says.
In the press release, Dr KC has outlined six additional demands. The first demand is for a review of the Supreme Court's decision. The second demand calls for the removal of the murder suspect, Badshah Kurmi, from his position as a provincial minister and urges the government and the Nepali Congress to ensure a fair and prompt investigation into the murder of Nirmala Kurmi.
In the third demand, Dr KC calls for immediate legal action against Sunil Sharma, a medical college operator and parliamentarian, for involvement in fake certificate-related offenses. The fourth demand is for the punishment of all those responsible for heinous crimes against humanity and war crimes during the conflict, and for ensuring full justice and compensation for the victims. The fifth demand seeks to arrange for free medicines and treatment for all Nepalis. The final demand is for the prompt implementation of past agreements related to reforms in education and health sectors.
