Govt firm to uproot corruption: DPM Shrestha

BY NARENDRA DHAKAL,Gorkha, July 26: Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Home Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha has said that the government was committed to uprooting corruption during a press conference held by the Press Centre Nepal, Gorkha on Tuesday. 

Addressing the issue of corruption, DPM Shrestha asserted that no one involved in corrupt practices would be spared. He said, "The investigation will go as far as it should go; we don't care if it is big or small, it someone is guilty, if the crime is confirmed, it will come under the legal scope."

Responding to reporters' queries about the possibility of only arresting low-profile individuals like porters and drivers in cases of gold smuggling, DPM Shrestha assured that the investigation would be conducted thoroughly, delving into all aspects of the matter.

Highlighting the seriousness of gold smuggling at Tribhuvan International Airport, DPM Shrestha stated that the government was taking significant steps to ensure proper management at the airport. He mentioned plans to enhance security measures, including the presence of police in arrival section, luggage, and cargo scanning zones.

"We are thinking of managing airport in a new way at the presence of the Prime Minister," he said. "So far, there is no presence of police in the arrival area, luggage and cargo scanning area. We are trying to deploy the police in those areas." 

Acknowledging the challenges faced in running effective anti-corruption campaigns due to differing political interests, DPM Shrestha emphasised that the government had initiated these efforts to tackle prevalent corruption, irregularities, and societal issues in Nepal. DPM Shrestha, also the acting chairman of the CPN (Maoist Centre), stressed that eradicating corruption was essential for the country's progress and prosperity. 

He assured that the government would overcome any obstacles to make the anti-corruption campaign a success. He said the current government was working to move the country towards prosperity by fulfilling the needs of education, health, employment, food, housing, roads, electricity, drinking water, etc. to change the lives of the common people.

DPM Shrestha expressed the government's determination to transform the country and instill hope and trust among the people. He acknowledged that the work done so far was commendable but emphasised the need for continuous efforts to steer the nation towards prosperity.