MP Singh questions: Has the govt. reached a point of operating brothels for sex work?

KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress chief whip Shyam Kumar Ghimire’s controversial statement about commercializing sex work to attract tourists has sparked strong opposition from Deepak Bahadur Singh, a member of the RPP.

Singh raised his concerns in the meeting of the House of Representatives on Monday.

In an earlier session on Sunday, Ghimire suggested that commercializing sex work could bring in tourists, particularly those seeking entertainment, and help boost the country’s economy. He argued that such a move could make a significant contribution to Nepal’s financial growth by targeting tourists who spend heavily in the entertainment sector.

In response, Singh vehemently opposed the idea, questioning whether the government should take responsibility for running brothels and sex work establishments. He asked, “Has the day come when the government should operate brothels and red-light districts for such purposes?”

Singh further criticized Ghimire’s remarks, highlighting the exodus of thousands of young Nepalis seeking employment and education abroad. He pointed out that only a limited number of young people and families remain in the country. “For economic development, attracting tourists who are willing to spend heavily—this includes allowing sex work—should we go this far?” Singh asked, expressing his disapproval.

The debate raises broader questions about the economic models proposed for Nepal’s tourism industry, sparking fierce discussions in the political landscape about the morality and feasibility of such controversial proposals.