Medical reform activist Dr. Govinda KC is being airlifted to Kathmandu by a Nepali Army helicopter for urgent medical treatment after his health significantly deteriorated during his 25th hunger strike in Ilam (Koshi Province).Laxman Dhakal, the Chief District Officer of Ilam, confirmed that a Nepali Army helicopter has already departed Kathmandu for Ilam to transport Dr. KC. Doctors at Ilam Hospital stated that Dr. KC’s health condition is critical, with dangerously low blood glucose levels and increased acetone in his urine.Dr. KC has been receiving treatment at Ilam Hospital since Thursday evening. According to Dr. Abhitabh Thakur of Ilam Hospital, his health has been continuously worsening. Tests revealed his blood glucose levels dropped to 67, 67, 47, and 36 milligrams per deciliter, indicating severe hypoglycemia. Dr. Thakur noted that Dr. KC refused to take glucose, and doctors have warned that his condition could become more difficult without it.His blood pressure is currently 100/60 mmHg, pulse rate ranges from 80 to 108 beats per minute, and blood oxygen saturation is between 92 and 96 percent. ECG tests have also occasionally shown ventricular premature complexes (VPCs), indicating potential heart rhythm issues.Ilam Hospital had requested the Ministry of Health of Koshi Province for further treatment arrangements, citing the risk of Dr. KC’s health deteriorating further and becoming life-threatening. Doctors also stated that Dr. KC, a patient with Type-2 diabetes, faces additional complications due to the dangerously low blood sugar levels.Dr. Govinda KC began his 25th hunger strike on Thursday evening at the Narayansthan Temple premises in Ilam, demanding reforms in the medical education and health sectors. Nmkhabar previously reported on the commencement of his fast.His six-point demands include: revoking decisions to operate MBBS and nursing programs at Geta without minimum infrastructure and human resources; cancelling decisions to increase college seats in violation of standards; and conducting an impartial investigation into the appointments and decisions of the Vice-Chairman of the Medical Education Commission and university officials, with action taken against those found guilty.Additionally, Dr. KC demands the full operation of the teaching hospital of Shahid Dashrath Chand Health Science University, the commencement of academic programs only after meeting necessary standards, and the amendment of controversial provisions related to the university. He also advocates for 75 percent scholarships in institutions that utilize public and government resources.Dr. KC is being transported to Kathmandu for further medical care. However, the specific hospital in Kathmandu where he will be admitted for treatment has not yet been disclosed.
Background
- Dr. Govinda KC began his 25th hunger strike on Thursday evening at the Narayansthan Temple premises in Ilam, demanding reforms in the medical education and health sectors.
- His six-point demands include revoking decisions to operate MBBS and nursing programs at Geta without minimum infrastructure and human resources, and conducting an impartial investigation into appointments and decisions of the Medical Education Commission and university officials.
- He also advocates for 75 percent scholarships in institutions that utilize public and government resources.
