KATHMANDU: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on doctors across the country to immediately resume health care services, warning that the continued disruption of essential medical care poses serious risks to public health.
Issuing a statement on Monday, NHRC Spokesperson Dr. Tikaram Pokhrel emphasized the critical nature of health services and urged medical professionals to uphold their professional integrity and responsibilities. “Shutting down services such as emergency care is against the Constitution,” the NHRC stated, adding that it has received complaints of citizens being denied accessible and timely health care.
The Commission has appealed to all stakeholders to resolve ongoing disputes through dialogue and legal channels, particularly the controversy surrounding the recent establishment of the Consumer Court.
Tensions escalated after the court issued a verdict holding certain hospitals and doctors accountable for medical negligence and ordered them to provide compensation to affected patients.
In response, doctors and health workers across Nepal—under the banner of the Nepal Medical Association (NMA)—launched a protest by halting all health services except emergency care, opposing several provisions of the Consumer Protection Act, 2018.
The NHRC has stressed the need for constructive discussion and legal due process to address concerns, rather than service disruptions that infringe upon citizens’ fundamental rights.
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