KATHMANDU, Sept 22: The government has been criticized for honoring controversial individuals including a doctor, who failed the licensing exam conducted by Nepal Medical Council (NMC).
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the honors, decorations and awards including the Nepal Ratna Manpadvi were announced on the occasion of the Constitution Day- 2075 BS. It was announced that various awards would be conferred on 501 individuals by the President at a special ceremony after some time.
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The list of the 501 individuals also includes Dr. Ram Thapa Chhetri, a non-practicing doctor who failed the NMC licensing test frequently. After completing the medical degree, everyone must pass the NMC test to practice in Nepal.
However, Dr. Chhetri failed the NMC tests time and again. "He is yet to pass the NMC test," said the NMC officials.
Dr. Chhetri, who completed his studies from the University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh, served the earthquake affected people in Dhading. The National Reconstruction Authority, Dhading recommended Dr. Chhetri for the award. It has been said that Dr. Chhetri is close to the then CPN-Maoist Center and the present ruling Nepal Communist Party(NCP).
The government's decision to honor Dr. Chhetri has been vehemently criticized on the social media.