KATHMANDU: Nurses working in private hospitals and medical institutions across Nepal suspended services for two hours on Wednesday, demanding that their minimum salaries be implemented in line with government regulations.

The protest, called by the Nursing Association of Nepal, took place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. as part of their ongoing agitation.

The association had earlier announced a new protest schedule on October 19, including a daily two-hour service halt starting from October 29.

In response to the nurses’ demands, the Ministry of Health and Population has formed a task force to address their concerns.

The task force is expected to submit its report on November 4 after which the association plans to announce its next round of protest programs.

The nurses have been wearing black armbands since October 21 to mark their dissatisfaction.

Their 15-point charter of demands includes fair wages, improved service conditions, and benefits for nurses employed in private healthcare facilities.