Kathmandu – Gen Z Movement leader Ravi Kiran Hamal has urged the government to immediately initiate dialogue with medical education reform campaigner Dr. Govinda KC before he begins his 24th hunger strike. Hamal said it is a sign of weakness in a democratic system when citizens are repeatedly forced to resort to hunger strikes and protests to have their legitimate demands addressed.

Dr. Govinda KC has announced that he will begin his 24th hunger strike at 3:00 PM on Thursday from Krishna Temple Dharamshala in Dhangadhi, Kailali, stating that the government has failed to implement previous agreements and has ignored his demands.

Expressing concern, Hamal said the government should have resolved the issues through dialogue within the deadline set by Dr. KC. He warned that ignoring peaceful protests could eventually lead to larger public movements. Referring to Sonam Wangchuk’s movement in India, Hamal stressed that governments should understand the importance of timely dialogue and peaceful resolution.

Dr. KC had given the government until July 20 (Shrawan 5) to address his demands. According to his aide, Dr. Amrit Jaisi, the government's failure to respond has left Dr. KC with no option but to resume his hunger strike.

In his statement, Dr. KC said the current government would be responsible for any serious consequences arising from its indifference. He stated that he is once again launching a hunger strike to protect citizens' right to healthcare and ensure quality medical education.

This time, Dr. KC has demanded the immediate cancellation of appointments made at Dasharath Chand Medical University and the Medical Education Commission that he claims violate legal provisions and involve conflicts of interest. He has also called for amendments to controversial provisions of the Medical Education Act, the withdrawal of proposals to reduce scholarships through the Medical Education Commission, and the cancellation of plans to increase seats in private medical colleges that do not meet required standards.

He further demanded that medical education be made completely non-profit in accordance with the National Medical Education Act, 2019, and that all previous written agreements signed with the government be fully implemented.

Dr. KC also urged the government to end the dependence of people in Sudurpashchim and border regions on India for healthcare, education, and employment by expanding quality services and infrastructure within Nepal.

In addition, he demanded strict legal action against those responsible for the serious murder and robbery incidents that occurred in Bhadra 2082, as well as an impartial investigation into corruption and criminal activities involving politicians and high-ranking officials who have held public office since 1990.

Hamal stated that the success of democracy should be measured not by the number of protests but by the government's ability to solve public problems on time. He emphasized that a capable government is one that prevents citizens from being forced into protests or hunger strikes. He urged the government to immediately begin talks with Dr. KC, implement all past agreements, and address the pending reforms in Nepal's health and medical education sectors as soon as possible.