MPs warn of monsoon hazards; RSP, RPP boycott over visa scam

KATHMANDU: Members of the House of Representatives have called on the government to take immediate measures to protect citizens from potential natural disasters triggered by recent heavy monsoon rains following a prolonged drought across Nepal.

During today’s emergency session, lawmakers expressed concern over the disruption of national highways due to floods and landslides, urging the government to promptly restore blocked roads and arrange for alternative travel routes.

Sher Bahadur Kunwar of the CPN (Unified Socialist) emphasized the need for early preparedness to safeguard people in the Terai and western regions, where the monsoon has become active after an extended dry spell.

Thakur Prasad Gaire of CPN (UML) highlighted the impact of rainfall on highways nationwide and urged the government to ensure safe travel conditions.

Narayani Sharma of CPN (Maoist Centre) pointed to the growing threat of snakebites in the Terai/Madhesh region and demanded the establishment of treatment facilities at the local level.

Prabhu Sah of the Janamat Party appealed for relief support to farmers in the Terai/Madhesh who have been severely affected by the drought.

Chandrakant Bhandari of Nepali Congress stressed the need to improve access to quality education within Nepal to prevent the youth from going abroad for education and employment.

Independent MP Dr. Amaresh Kumar Singh demanded strict action against those who allegedly assaulted staff at the residence of former minister Jayprakash Gupta, reminding that it is the state’s duty to ensure citizen safety.

RSP & RPP continue boycott over visa fraud probe

Meanwhile, opposition parties Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) and Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) boycotted today’s session, accusing the government of stalling a high-level investigation into the “visit visa” scam.

RSP lawmaker Biraj Bhakta Shrestha criticized the current investigation committee as inadequate, declaring that his party would continue its protest until a just and thorough probe is ensured.

RPP’s Deepak Bahadur Singh stated that his party would not attend House meetings or accept attendance allowances until a credible investigation into the visa-related fraud is launched.

Both parties walked out of the House after placing their official statements on record.