Resident doctors continue protest demanding allowances and labor rights

KATHMANDU: Resident doctors continued their protest for the 27th consecutive day on Tuesday, reiterating their demands for equal subsistence allowance and improved working conditions. The protest, which began on Chaitra 21 (April 3), has seen regular demonstrations from Maitighar to Baneshwor in the capital.

The doctors, mostly affiliated with private medical colleges, are demanding allowances equivalent to government employees of the eighth level. They have stated that the protest will not be withdrawn unless there is a formal commitment to meet this demand.

Private medical college operators had initially expressed reservations about fulfilling the demand, citing financial constraints. However, after the Medical Education Commission’s 19th meeting on Baisakh 15 (April 28) decided to allow an increase in MBBS seat quotas and fees, some colleges have indicated willingness to reconsider the allowance issue.

Beyond financial demands, the doctors are also calling for improved labor protections. Their demands include a maximum 72-hour work week, 28 days of mandatory annual leave, and provisions for bereavement and maternity leave based on necessity.