
Valley
On sixth day of fast, Dr KC in frail health
As the hunger strike of Dr Govinda KC entered the sixth day on Saturday and his health condition deteriorated further, the government is yet to exhibit urgency in addressing his demands.
As the hunger strike of Dr Govinda KC entered the sixth day on Saturday and his health condition deteriorated further, the government is yet to exhibit urgency in addressing his demands.
Dr KC began his ninth fast-unto-death on September 26 demanding initiatives to impeach chief of the Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority Lokman Singh Karki and commissioner Raj Narayan Pathak.
He has also called for endorsement of the Health Profession Education Bill and implementation of medical education fees as suggested
by the Mathema Committee. Dr KC also wants appointment of the dean at the TU Institute of Medicine on the basis of seniority.
Dr KC said he would not end his fast until the government fulfils his demands. “The government drags its feet each time my fast is over,” said Dr KC. “I will fight for reforms in medical education till my last breath.”
According to Health Minister Gagan Thapa, the government has taken many important steps in addressing Dr KC’s demands. “The main concern of Dr KC is the Health Profession Education Act and the commission it proposes,” said Thapa. “For this the work has been expedited. The bill is being reviewed by the parliamentary committee.”
Minister Thapa said the government had directed the Tribhuvan University to appoint the IoM dean.
Physicians said Dr KC’s condition was deteriorating by the hour. Dr Dibya Singh Shah said the fasting doctor has started complaining of dizziness and muscle cramps.
Rally in support
Hundreds of people supporting Dr KC took to the streets on Saturday to press the government to address the demands of the fasting doctor. People from all walks of life joined the march that began from Maitighar and ended in New Baneshwor.