NC MP Basnet criticizes govt for weak response to pro-monarchy protests

KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress MP Mohan Bahadur Basnet has stated that due to the government’s weakness, the pro-monarchy protests have turned into acts of anarchy, and the police were rendered powerless in the face of the situation.

Speaking to journalists on Sunday at the Federal Parliament complex in New Baneshwor, he made the remarks.

He criticized the pro-monarchy protesters, suggesting they were not driven by political motives but were instead looking to take advantage of the chaotic situation.

“It seemed like they were waiting for the right moment to engage in looting and violence,” he said.

Basnet argued that the police should not have waited for orders while incidents such as the killing of people, arson, and looting were occurring.

He remarked, “When the protests were taking place in places like Tinkune, and looting occurred in Bhattbhattini, it seemed like the protesters were waiting for an opportunity to loot. This needs to be held accountable by the leadership. It appeared the protests were advancing with the purpose of fishing in troubled waters rather than for political reasons. As a result, the state’s presence appeared weak, and the police were helpless. They couldn’t just sit back while public properties were being set on fire, people were dying, and looting was happening.”

Basnet also pointed out that the government’s serious missteps had led to considerable loss of life and property