KATHMANDU: Resident doctors have announced the suspension of all services, except for emergencies, in hospitals nationwide starting today (Wednesday), following their ongoing demand for improved government remuneration.
After halting outpatient department (OPD) services yesterday (Tuesday), they confirmed their decision to stop all services except emergencies.
The doctors stated that this escalation in their protest follows eight days of demonstrations without any response to their demands.
The protest is being led by the Safe Workplace Struggle Committee for Health Workers and has unfolded in stages.
On Monday, they boycotted OPD services for three hours, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., while also demonstrating at health institutions across the country, excluding medical colleges and specialized institutes.
In earlier phases, they staged protests through ‘pen-down’ actions and by wearing aprons.
The Struggle Committee is calling for the minimum wage for interns and doctors in MD, MS, MDS, DM, and MCH programs to align with government standards.
They are also demanding that all postgraduate programs be made fully fee-free and bond-free.