Education Secretary Heads to Dhangadhi as Government Moves to Defuse Dr Govinda KC Standoff

Education and Sports Ministry Secretary Chudamani Paudel has arrived in Dhangadhi to begin direct talks with medical activist Dr Govinda KC, as the government intensifies efforts to resolve the dispute through dialogue. Minister Sasmita Pokharel said the secretary was sent to discuss the demands raised by Dr KC and work toward a consensual solution.

The move follows a telephone conversation between Minister Pokharel and Dr KC on Friday evening. According to the ministry, Paudel’s visit is a continuation of that initial contact, with the government saying it wants to settle the issue through mutual agreement and respectful negotiation.

The talks come at a sensitive moment, with Dr KC continuing his 24th hunger strike in Dhangadhi. His health has reportedly worsened during the protest, and he was admitted to Seti Provincial Hospital after doctors found his blood sugar had dropped significantly. Medical staff recommended immediate intensive care, underscoring the urgency surrounding the negotiations.

Dr KC began the fast on Thursday with a five-point demand, renewing pressure on the government over long-standing concerns tied to medical education reform, public welfare, and the handling of university-related issues in Sudurpaschim. He has said he will continue the strike until his key demands are addressed.

The latest intervention shows how the government is trying to avoid another prolonged confrontation with one of Nepal’s most persistent reform campaigners. Dr KC’s protests have repeatedly forced administrations to engage in last-minute talks, often after public pressure mounts and his health deteriorates.

For now, the government is betting on direct engagement rather than delay. Whether this round of dialogue produces a breakthrough will depend on how far both sides are willing to compromise in the coming hours.