The Ministry of Health and Food Hygiene has expressed deep sorrow over the death of a patient while undergoing treatment at Narayani Hospital, Birgunj, and extended condolences to the bereaved family. At the same time, the ministry said it has taken serious note of the vandalism at the hospital and attacks against doctors and health workers that followed the incident.

The ministry said that if a patient’s death is suspected to have resulted from an error by a health worker, existing laws provide mechanisms for investigation, determination of responsibility and justice. It reiterated a policy of zero tolerance toward violence in health institutions, stressing that healthcare is a highly sensitive sector where both patients and service providers must respect the need for a safe and professional treatment environment.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to creating a safe and high-morale working environment for doctors and health workers so they can provide continuous and fearless care. It asked health professionals to continue improving service delivery, urged the local administration to identify those responsible for the violence and initiate legal action, and called on all stakeholders to exercise restraint, cooperate with one another and help ensure that Narayani Hospital’s services continue without disruption.