MPs in NA raise alarm over budget, power crisis & social issues
Speaking during the zero hour, several members accused the government of remaining indifferent to key public issues, arguing that citizens’ concerns were not being adequately addressed.
KATHMANDU: Lawmakers in the National Assembly, during Sunday’s session, drew the government’s attention to a range of pressing public concerns, including the upcoming fiscal year’s budget, disruptions in electricity supply, caste-based discrimination, and governance shortcomings.
Speaking during the zero hour, several members accused the government of remaining indifferent to key public issues, arguing that citizens’ concerns were not being adequately addressed.
They highlighted problems ranging from weak policy implementation to gaps in development planning and daily hardships faced by the public.
MP Gomadevi Timilsena criticized the proposed budget for failing to present concrete programs or sufficient allocations for industrial development.
She said that although industrial growth was mentioned in budget statements, there was no clear implementation framework. She also called for a clearer government stance on issues affecting squatters, poor farmers, and laborers.
In Karnali Province, MP Durga Gurung raised concerns over persistent electricity problems in Birendranagar, citing low voltage and irregular supply that have severely affected residents, particularly students and business owners due to frequent nighttime outages.
MP Narbahadur Bista informed the House about disruptions in the Kohalpur–Surkhet 132 kV transmission line caused by storms and difficulties in repair work due to its location within a protected area. He also criticized ministers for failing to respond to parliamentary questions, calling it a disregard for legislative accountability.
MP Bhuwan Bahadur Sunar highlighted the continued prevalence of caste-based discrimination and untouchability, expressing concern that the state has failed to ensure justice for affected communities. He demanded stronger budgetary commitments to end such practices.
MP Yubaraj Sharma raised concerns over rising inflation and what he described as attacks on democratic values and governance norms.
He also questioned ongoing political discussions around constitutional amendments and criticized reports related to recent youth-led movements, alleging attempts to shield powerful individuals.
Lawmakers collectively urged the government and parliamentary leadership to ensure that questions raised in the House are addressed effectively and that urgent public issues are resolved without delay.
