The Ministry of Health and Population has issued a press release expressing concern over incidents in which individuals have entered hospitals and health institutions without permission, photographed or filmed patients and health workers, spread misleading information under the guise of interviews, and obstructed doctors and employees while they perform their duties. The ministry said such activities can seriously affect the regular delivery of healthcare services and require strict attention.

The ministry said filming inside sensitive hospital areas without authorization, subjecting doctors or health workers to insulting treatment, creating undue pressure, threatening them or interfering with treatment may violate existing law. It cited the Health Workers and Health Institutions Security Act, 2066, which prohibits obstruction of treatment as well as assault, threats, verbal abuse and indecent or humiliating behaviour toward health workers and employees. It also referred to provisions of the Muluki Criminal Code, 2074 concerning taking a person’s photograph without consent.

The ministry has therefore urged the public and all concerned not to take or publish photographs and videos inside hospital or health-institution premises without prior permission, and not to engage in any activity contrary to the law. It warned that anyone found committing or encouraging such acts may face action under prevailing laws, while district administration offices and security agencies have also been informed to enforce the provisions.

The ministry further asked doctors, health workers and healthcare institutions to immediately report incidents involving threats, intimidation or interference with treatment to the relevant authorities so that prompt investigation and action can be taken.