Harka continues protest in House, speaker warns over ‘Unruly Conduct’

KATHMANDU: Lawmakers from the Shram Sanskriti Party once again staged protests inside House of Representatives on Wednesday, demanding the right to ask follow-up questions after ministers responded to parliamentary concerns.

The disruption began after Minister for Information and Communication Dr. Bikram Timilsina and Minister for Labour, Employment and Social Security Ramji Yadav addressed questions raised in the House.

Shram Sanskriti Party lawmakers, including party chair Harka Sampang, stood in protest, insisting they should be allowed to seek clarifications and ask counter-questions.

However, Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal denied them additional speaking time, stating that parliamentary rules do not provide for further clarification once ministers have responded to issues raised during House proceedings.

“Today, ministers from two ministries answered the questions raised in the House. They have already clarified from the rostrum that any remaining concerns will be addressed as necessary in future proceedings,” the Speaker said.

Despite repeated instructions, the protesting lawmakers continued their demonstration inside the chamber.

The Speaker then issued a stern warning, accusing the lawmakers of repeatedly violating parliamentary decorum and established rules of conduct.

“I have already issued rulings three times today. Please remain within decorum and return to your seats,” Aryal said. “The behavior repeatedly displayed in the House is against the Constitution, the law, parliamentary regulations and the dignity of Parliament.”

He further said that the lawmakers’ conduct amounted to unruly and inappropriate behavior inconsistent with parliamentary procedures.

Aryal also drew attention to Rule 21 (a) of the House of Representatives regulations while cautioning the protesting members.