National
Dr KC breaks 13th fast after 14 days
Dr Govinda KC broke his 13th fast-unto-death Wednesday after 14 days following the government’s promise to enact a law incorporating the provisions of the Health Profession Education (HPE) Bill through an ordinance.Manish Gautam
Dr Govinda KC broke his 13th fast-unto-death Wednesday after 14 days following the government’s promise to enact a law incorporating the provisions of the Health Profession Education (HPE) Bill through an ordinance.
After an hours-long meeting on Wednesday, the government said it would introduce an ordinance by a Cabinet meeting on October 23 to enact a law to address the doctor’s concerns.
After a 10-point agreement with the government representatives, Dr KC broke his fast. He, however, warned of staging another round of hunger strike if the government “fails to keep its word”.
“My fight has always been for the improvement of the medical education sector and equitable distribution of medical schools in the country,” said Dr KC. “It must have become clear to all by now that a majority of parliamentarians do not work in the interest of people. They serve the interests of particular groups.”
Dr KC launched his 13th hunger strike demanding that the HPE Bill be endorsed in line with recommendations made by a team of experts. Though the original HPE Bill had those recommendations, a House committee had tweaked some provisions, which would have benefited a handful of people, especially some members of the CPN-UML and the CPN (Maoist Centre).
The government’s plan to endorse the bill as per Dr KC’s demand on October 12, however, was foiled by the UML and Maoist Centre. Two days later, Parliament was dissolved on October 14.
Nepali Congress leader Gagan Thapa termed Wednesday’s government decision a good move. “But the fate of the ordinance will depend on the new government that will be formed after the elections,” said Thapa, who playing a crucial role in forging Wednesday’s agreement between Dr KC and the government.
Dr KC’s one of the major demands is putting a moratorium on establishing new medical colleges in Kathmandu Valley for 10 years.