Maintaining its firm stance against the ongoing hunger strike of Dr Govinda KC and his demands, the government has invited the protesting side for unconditional talks.

In a statement on Saturday evening, the government talks team, led by Education Secretary Khaga Raj Baral, invited Dr KC’s team for dialogue. However, Dr KC says that he would discuss his demands only if the government withdraws the medical education bill from Parliament. Dr KC’s has put forth a seven-point demand.

Dr Guna Raj Lohani, a member of the government team, said, “If Dr KC comes to the table only with prior demands, not any new ones, we are ready for talks anytime.” In response, Dr KC’s team also released a statement alleging the government of forming a team without giving it the mandate.

“Dr KC formed a dialogue team without preconditions.

It had three meetings with the government side. Since the team lacked the mandate, continuing talks with it would be a waste of time. Therefore, our team has called for withdrawal of the bill and formation of a team with full mandate,” Dr KC’s team stated.

Formal talks between the two sides have yet to begin after the agitating doctor was brought forcibly to Kathmandu from Jumla on Thursday.