KATHMANDU: Doctors in Kathmandu have taken to the streets in protest against recent actions by the Consumer Court regarding medical malpractice cases.
In response, hospitals and health institutions nationwide have suspended all services except emergency care.
On Tuesday, doctors and healthcare professionals from the Kathmandu Valley staged a rally from Maitighar Mandala to Bijulibazar, wearing white coats as a symbol of protest.
The demonstration was part of an escalating movement led by the Nepal Medical Association (NMA).
The NMA had earlier called on all medical professionals to wear black armbands starting July 1 and, as of Monday, decided to completely halt non-emergency services nationwide, citing a lack of response from the government.
The protest stems from dissatisfaction with the Consumer Protection Act, 2018, which allows the Consumer Court to take action in medical-related cases.
The NMA argues that medical practice should be regulated solely by the Nepal Medical Council, not the Consumer Court.
The ongoing protest has caused serious disruptions for patients, particularly those who traveled long distances for treatment. With outpatient departments (OPDs) closed and no clear end to the strike in sight, many patients remain in limbo.
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