Kathmandu, August 23

The Ministry of Health has formed a probe committee to investigate charges against Kathmandu National Medical College, Ghattekulo. It is alleged that the medical college is operating without approval from the ministry.

The probe committee comprises eight members, including Dr Dipendra Raman Singh, Gunaraj Lohani, Bhola Ram Shrestha, Narayan Dhakal, Runa Jha, Swoyam Prakash Pandit, Kabita Aryal and Bhawanath Khatiwada.

“The committee has been given seven days to submit its report. It will examine if the hospital has fulfilled necessary criteria,” said Minister for Health Giriraj Mani Pokharel.

Tribhuvan University Executive Council granted affiliation to the medical college on July 27 to run MBBS programme.  The medical college had applied for approval in 2011, 2015 and 2017. However, the applications were rejected as the hospital failed to submit necessary documents, including environmental impact assessment report, and recommendations of District Public Health Office.

Apart from having an earthquake resilient infrastructure, the hospital is supposed to have six-year insurance as per the guidelines.

“The building lacks proof of seismic resistance from Department of Urban Development and Building Construction. The hospital should either be closed or it should submit necessary documents,” said Dr Bhola Ram Shrestha, chief, Curative Service Division at the Ministry of Health.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education is found to have granted approval for the hospital’s operation. The documents presented by Kathmandu National Medical College to the Ministry of Health show that the Ministry of Education issued permission to run a 300-bed hospital on June 22, 2012.

“The education ministry has no right to grant approval for the operation of a hospital,” said Hari Lamsal, spokesperson, Ministry of Education. The college is owned by Basruddin Ansari and is an extension of National Medical College, Birgunj.

Dr Govinda KC, an orthopaedic surgeon, has warned of launching fresh fast-unto-death if the decision to grant affiliation to the medical college is not annulled. The doctor has given a 10-day ultimatum to the government to withdraw the decision.

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