AFIN and Association Object to "Insulting Behavior" of Protesting Nurses, Walk Out of Meeting

Kathmandu. The Association of Private Health Institutions of Nepal (AFIN) and the Association of Medical and Dental Colleges of Nepal have expressed serious objection to what they term the "insulting behavior" displayed by protesting nurses during a task force meeting today at the Ministry of Health regarding their salary scale.

Issuing a joint statement, AFIN and the Association claimed that the use of derogatory words, inappropriate behavior, and the display of placards reading 'Mafia' by the protesting side during the talks spoiled the atmosphere and damaged mutual trust.

"The incident where derogatory words were used, inappropriate behavior was displayed, and placards reading 'Mafia' were exhibited by the protesting side during the talks has spoiled the atmosphere and harmed mutual trust," the joint statement read. 

The associations noted that representatives of private health institutions are always committed to resolving issues through dialogue, cooperation, and respect, and highly value the contribution of nursing professionals across the country.

"We are positive about the demands raised by the nurses, but due to such behavior, we were forced to leave the negotiation room," the statement said.

The associations argued that the responsibility for creating such a situation lies with the weakness and unbalanced management of the state, stating that the unpleasant situation arose because the government failed to introduce sustainable policies, equal treatment, and clear procedures in a timely manner.

"Private hospitals are continuously providing services to patients across the country, and we are committed to finding a just solution through cooperation with health workers and the government in the coming days. 

However, should such insulting behavior recur in the future, we will be forced to take necessary steps to protect our dignity and the prestige of our member institutions." The statement was issued by Dr. Gyanendra Man Singh Karki, President of the Association of Private Health Institutions of Nepal (AFIN), and the Senior Vice President of the Association of Medical and Dental Colleges of Nepal.