General Strike Announced in Far West Tomorrow, Demanding Operation of Shaheed Dashrath Chand University of Health Sciences

Dhangadhi: A general strike has been declared in Far West for tomorrow, as demands intensify for the establishment of Shaheed Dashrath Chand University of Health Sciences in Geta, Kailali.

Lokraj Pandey, Coordinator of the Struggle Committee for the Establishment of the University of Health Sciences, announced that Sunday would witness a complete shutdown in Sudurpaschim region. The strike is expected to receive support from transportation businesses, political parties, and merchants. Pandey stated, "From 8 am to 6 pm, all educational, financial, and other associations/institutions, factories, trade establishments, and transportation services will be completely suspended in the Far West Province." On Friday, the Sangharsh Committee held discussions with industrialists, traders, and public transport operators in the Far West region.

The ongoing campaign in Kailali demands the operation of Shahid Dashrath Chand National Health Sciences University, as specified in the policies and programs of the federal government on February 12th and May 19th, 2022 AD (29th Magh and 5th Jestha, 2079 BS). Protesters have expressed their dissatisfaction with the budget proposal for the next fiscal year 2080/081 BS, which states the construction of a hospital in Geta with a capacity of only 100 beds, contrary to the expectation of a 600-bed facility.

Over the past 10 days, the Sangharsh Samiti has led a movement advocating for the establishment of a health university in Geta. On Thursday, the Attaria market remained closed, while slogans were chanted, and a banner proclaiming 'Shaheed Dashrath Chand Health Sciences University' was displayed at the main entrance of Geta. The UML (Unified Marxist-Leninist) party also staged a protest in Dhangadhi on Friday evening.

The general strike serves as a strong message to authorities, highlighting the widespread concern and collective demand for the operationalization of the university in Geta. The local community remains resolute in their pursuit of enhanced healthcare services and quality education in the region.