Dharan, Feb. 7: The atmosphere has been tense at the BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, as students have resorted to a relay hunger strike, advocating for the swift resumption of their studies. 

Dr. Om Shanti Rajat, President of the Student Welfare Association, disclosed that the students have been staging the hunger strike for the past six days under the banner ‘Student’s Will, Autonomous Medical Education’. They are urging authorities to ensure their constitutional rights by promptly resuming teaching-learning activities and conducting examinations at a full capacity,” he said.

For the last 24 days, the institute has faced disruptions due to protests. The deadlock stems from the suspension of the promotion process for teachers, doctors, and employees at the BP Institute. 

Despite an agreement made on December 18 to resume the promotion interview pending ministerial approval, the process remains in limbo, leading to civil disobedience protests by the teachers and staff welfare societies for over three weeks.

Dr. Rajat emphasised that while the demand for staff promotions is justified, the prolonged disruption directly impacts students, whose studies have been hindered. This marks the third instance of interruptions, with previous closures occurring from August 29 to September 12 and again from October 7 to November 9 last year. Jesidar Sah, one of the frustrated students,  expressed concerns about the uncertainty surrounding their education and future.

During the ongoing 24-hour relay hunger strike, four students have fallen ill and are undergoing treatment.  Dr. Rajat conveyed that the gravity of their protest could escalate to a fast-onto-death if their pleas go unheard. Approximately 1,200 graduate-level students face an uncertain future and the financial burden imposed on students due to fines for delayed tuition fee payments. The administration’s focus on tuition fees and fines, rather than addressing the persistent interruptions in education, has drawn criticism. 

Despite instructions from the Prime Minister and Chief Secretary to convene an executive committee meeting, the demands of teachers and staff remain unaddressed. The recent attempt during the meeting on January 22 and 23 to resolve the issues proved unsuccessful.

The situation is dire, not only for students but also for patients at BP Institute. The Student Welfare Society appeals for a swift resolution, urging all stakeholders, including the central government and the BP Institute’s leadership, to intervene and facilitate the prompt resumption of teaching activities.