Nepal’s Nurses Protests Over Wage Disparities

The Government of Nepal has formed a 14-member committee to address escalating protests by nursing health workers, primarily from private hospitals and medical colleges, who are demanding fair remuneration in line with national wage standards. The committee is chaired by Prof. Dr. Shree Krishna Shrestha, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Health and Population.

It was established following nationwide demonstrations by nurses who claim they are not being paid the government-mandated minimum monthly salary of NPR 34,730 (approximately USD 260). The protests have raised concerns about staffing shortages and healthcare service disruptions, particularly in private sector facilities.

Many nurses say they have been underpaid for years despite playing a critical role in Nepal’s healthcare system. Nepal’s Prime Minister and Health Minister Sushila Karki intervened last week, directing health ministry officials to take immediate action to resolve the dispute.

The newly formed committee is expected to begin dialogue with stakeholders starting today, with hopes of reaching a resolution that would see the protesting nurses return to work. Health Secretary Dr. Bikash Devkota has expressed optimism, stating that the government is committed to ensuring fair treatment of healthcare workers and maintaining uninterrupted medical services.

The situation highlights broader challenges in Nepal’s healthcare sector, particularly wage disparities between public and private institutions, and the need for stronger labor protections for frontline medical staff.