KATHMANDU: During a program hosted by the National Trauma Center in Kathmandu last Saturday, Dr. Govinda KC voiced his demand for the removal of Health and Population Minister Mohan Bahadur Basnet from his position.
Minister Basnet alleged that Dr. KC was backed by a medical group, further threatening action against doctors and staff involved in KC’s protest.
Dr. KC responded to Basnet’s allegations through a press statement issued on Sunday.
“Minister Basnet, appointed by Sher Bahadur Deuba and Pushpa Kamal Dahal, is aligned with criminal networks. His tenure contradicts democratic principles, necessitating his immediate removal,” demanded Dr. KC.
Dr. KC rebuffed Basnet’s accusations as baseless, emphasizing his advocacy for accessible, quality healthcare and equitable education.
KC highlighted the concerted efforts of top political leaders, the Prime Minister, Health Minister, Parliamentary Health and Education Committee members, and vested interests, pressuring for affiliation and operation permissions for various health-related educational institutions under CTEVT, including nursing colleges, failing to meet standards and violating existing laws.
The Health Minister’s recent actions, purportedly serving the interests of vested groups, include spreading false rumors about the need for doctors and nurses to study abroad due to inadequate opportunities in Nepal. Contrary to these claims, since the enactment of the Medical Education Act, fewer individuals are seeking education abroad. Consequently, private medical colleges, nursing schools, and related institutions struggle to fill vacant seats due to a lack of applicants.
Dr. KC emphasized that government agencies, after on-site assessments, reported no new nursing colleges in India.
Critiquing the Health Minister’s conduct as undermining the dignity of the office, Dr. KC accused Basnet of openly advocating for vested interests and exerting undue pressure on relevant agencies. He underscored the need to adhere to democratic values in the governance of Nepal.
Dr. KC held Prime Minister Prachanda accountable for any undemocratic actions by the Health Minister, insisting on the implementation of agreements reached between previous governments and his group by December 14.
Failing this, Dr. KC warned of escalating measures, including strong protests and potentially initiating a satyagraha from December 15, if their demands remained unmet.”
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