Butwal, October 29
The hunger strike by students at the Universal College of Medical Sciences and Teaching Hospital in Bhairawa has entered its 15th day.
This student protest has resulted in a complete halt of classes and treatments at the hospital. While the college administration is prepared to address all the demands put forth by the protesting students, there has been no agreement reached concerning the resignation of the principal.
According to the Public Relations Officer of Universal College of Medical Sciences, Sushil Gurung, an agreement could not be reached because the students insisted on the resignation of Principal Prof. Dr. Laxmi Pathak as their primary condition.
“The college is ready to address all the demands raised by the students, but we cannot decide on the principal’s resignation,” said Gurung.
The resident doctors at Universal College of Medical Sciences also voiced their support for the student’s movement. As a result, patients were unable to receive treatment services, causing them significant inconvenience.
After assuming the role of principal, Pathak introduced a new dress code for MBBS 3rd, 4th, and 5th-year students, as well as interns.
The students strongly objected to this dress code. In response, Pathak provided pants and shirts for all the students. However, female students raised concerns, stating that they were not comfortable wearing pants and shirts for an extended period.
Allegedly, final-year students who protested in this manner were also prevented from taking their examinations.
The new dress code was initially implemented for fourth-year MBBS students for a period of one year. Initially perceived as a routine policy, the issue escalated over time, leading to students demanding the resignation of Pathak.
The students’ protest encompasses several demands, including the reinstatement of the previous dress code, an increase in internship salaries, and the lifting of restrictions on students who were barred from taking exams.
In recent developments, the resignation of the principal has become the primary demand. This protest, which involves around 600 students from both MBBS and BDS programs, has garnered support from resident doctors as well.
