Dr. Govinda KC’s health has critically worsened after a four-day hunger strike in Ilam, prompting hospital officials to urge immediate government action.
“The situation is life-threatening,” stated Dr. Amitabh Thakur, Medical Superintendent of Ilam Hospital, during a press conference on Sunday.
KC began his 25th hunger strike to advocate for reforms in medical education and was admitted to Ilam Hospital on Saturday due to serious health issues.
Dr. Mahesh Acharya, one of his treating physicians, reported a significant drop in KC’s blood sugar levels and a worsening urinary tract infection.
A letter requesting intervention and necessary care was sent to the Ministry of Health and the Koshi provincial government in Biratnagar.
Koshi Province Health Secretary Kritipal Subedi visited KC at the hospital on Sunday.
Health Declines During 25th Hunger Strike
KC initiated his latest hunger strike against the government at 5 PM on Thursday, October 29, claiming they had not addressed his demands despite being given additional time.
Following medical complications during his protest on Saturday, it was confirmed that his condition had deteriorated.
Doctors are closely monitoring his health, and hospital officials have requested government intervention.
Six Key Demands
KC’s hunger strike aims to reform medical education in Nepal, emphasizing that it should serve the public interest.
One of his primary concerns is the approval of MBBS and nursing courses at Shahid Dasharath Chand University of Health Sciences in Geta, which he believes does not meet required standards.
He is also worried about increased student quotas at medical institutions that fail to meet requirements.
KC demands the revocation of approvals and increased quotas that violate medical education standards, suspension of involved officials until an independent investigation is concluded, and proper operation of Geta Teaching Hospital.
Additionally, he insists on strict enforcement of scholarships at publicly funded institutions, honoring past agreements, and expanding public medical education institutions nationwide.
Failure to Honor Government Agreements
KC asserts that the government has not fulfilled its commitments since the last agreement was signed on June 25, which included promises related to medical education and health issues at Geta Teaching Hospital.
He believes that delays and decisions not aligned with medical education standards necessitate his continued protest.
Request for Government Intervention
The hospital’s request for intervention from the Ministry of Health and the Koshi provincial government underscores the severity of KC’s condition.
With declining blood sugar levels and a worsening infection, his health is a significant concern.
These developments highlight the government’s response to his demands and ongoing issues regarding medical education standards, public healthcare institutions, and affordable healthcare in Nepal.