RSP MP Kharel questions govt’s inaction on zero hour issues
MP Kharel said that repeated issues raised by lawmakers—especially those affecting citizens—have been ignored, raising questions over the relevance of Zero Hour itself.
KATHMANDU: Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) lawmaker Jagadish Kharel has strongly criticized the government for failing to act on public concerns raised during the “Zero Hour” in the House of Representatives.
Speaking in the meeting of the House of Representatives, MP Kharel said that repeated issues raised by lawmakers—especially those affecting citizens—have been ignored, raising questions over the relevance of Zero Hour itself.
He pointed to unresolved matters including the investigation into the Tamakoshi hydropower project and land issues faced by squatters in Bhedpu. He said that despite repeatedly raising these concerns, the government has not shown any meaningful response.
“With the monsoon approaching, the suffering of affected people remains unaddressed,” he said, expressing dissatisfaction over the state’s inaction.
Kharel questioned whether Zero Hour is only meant for recording speeches on camera or whether it should lead to real implementation. He warned that if the government continues to ignore such issues, the parliamentary practice risks losing its purpose.
“If these issues are only recorded and not acted upon, Zero Hour should be discontinued,” he said, adding that alternatively, a strong commission or committee should be formed to ensure immediate implementation of the concerns raised.
Referring to previous symbolic protests by lawmakers, including MP Hari Dhakal’s silent protest in parliament, Kharel urged the government to avoid creating a situation where lawmakers are forced to protest again.
He called on the government to take public concerns seriously and uphold the dignity and effectiveness of parliamentary proceedings.
