Lawmakers raise concerns over burning issues

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Mar. 19: In Monday’s session of the House of Representatives, discussions concerning the charter of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) took centre stage, with parliamentarians advocating for its utilisation to expedite Nepal’s economic development.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Narayan Kaji Shrestha presented a proposal for a comprehensive discussion on the ‘BIMSTEC Charter’ during the meeting.

Participating MPs emphasised Nepal’s membership in BIMSTEC and stressed the potential benefits in poverty alleviation, energy, tourism, transportation, infrastructure expansion, and climate change mitigation. MPs underscored the importance of making both BIMSTEC and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) effective.

During the discourse, parliamentarians highlighted the need for Nepal to accelerate efforts within BIMSTEC and SAARC, advocating for the country’s independence from geopolitical influences. Notable attendees included MPs Raghuji Pant, Yogesh Kumar Bhattarai, Shishir Khanal, Metmani Chaudhary, Manish Jha, Abdul Khan, Amar Bahadur Thapa, Ranju Kumari Jha, Chitra Bahadur KC, Prem Suwal, Pradeep Paudel, Dhruva Bahadur Pradhan, Vinita Kathayat, and Sanjay Kumar Gautam.

Deputy Prime Minister Shrestha, in response to the discussions, expressed serious consideration of the suggestions and reaffirmed BIMSTEC’s goal to enhance regional cooperation and economic growth. He highlighted Nepal’s active participation in the forum and assured planned efforts to capitalize on development opportunities.

Furthermore, Deputy Prime Minister Shrestha clarified that BIMSTEC’s bilateral technical and economic cooperation endeavours do not supersede the importance of SAARC. He emphasized that while BIMSTEC has its justifications, SAARC remains irreplaceable, and efforts to reactivate it will continue.

Addressing concerns about Nepali citizens serving in the Russian army, Foreign Minister Shrestha informed the Parliament that Russia has tentatively agreed to cancel contracts for those wishing to return home. However, the modalities are yet to be determined, with the Nepali Embassy in Moscow actively pursuing the matter.

Shrestha urged for seriousness and moderation in matters of national interest and foreign relations, emphasizing the implementation of diplomatic codes of conduct. He called upon leaders and parliamentarians to prioritize national interest and consensus in diplomatic affairs to safeguard Nepal’s sovereignty and independence.

Similarly, addressing procedural matters, Speaker Devraj Ghimire announced a vacancy within the Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP) following the passing of House of Representatives member Manju Sharma Ansari, as per Article 89, Clause 9C of the Constitution of Nepal.

Likewise, Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Minister Shakti Bahadur Basnet presented an agreement for the International Solar Alliance (ISA), while Minister of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Padam Giri introduced Bill 2023 aimed at amending Nepal Acts regarding asset purification, money laundering, and business promotion. 

In parliamentary discussions, MPs addressed a spectrum of concerns. Ram Prakash Chaudhary called for a ‘Speaker’s Corner’ to safeguard 

freedom of expression, while Prem Suwal urged action on issues affecting Swargadwari farmers and crimes rooted in superstition. Chitra Bahadur KC highlighted challenges in mining activities, specifically in Kaligandaki.

Prabhu Sah demanded recognition for Dilip Mahato, a victim of opposition to illegal mining, and advocated for his family’s compensation. Jeevan Pariyar welcomed Pokhara’s designation as a tourist capital, emphasizing justice for financial misconduct victims and stringent action against gold smugglers.

Meanwhile, Rishikesh Pokharel stressed the need for immediate cooperative sector solutions, suggesting an inquiry commission. Kiran Kumar Sah emphasized educational reform, while Deepak Bahadur Singh called for impartial gold smuggling investigations. Kalpana Chaudhary voiced concerns over public distrust in political leadership, and Bijula Rayamajhi urged learning from past experiences.

Deputy Speaker Indira Rana proposed committee reshuffling, unanimously agreed upon. MPs addressed legislative priorities, Bimala Subedi emphasized legislative continuity, Shishir Khanal raised road safety concerns, Metmani Chaudhary expressed discontent over the Guthi Bill, and Abdul Khan highlighted national frustrations, urging government intervention.

Meanwhile, Monday’s session of the National Assembly convened to pass a condolence resolution in honour of the late Manju Sharma Ansari, a member of the House of Representatives.

National Assembly Speaker Narayan Prasad Dahal conveyed heartfelt condolences on Ansari’s passing and extended sympathies to the grieving family.

The proposal received unanimous approval during the session, with attendees observing a minute of silence in memory of the late MP. Ansari, who served as a proportional member representing the Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP) Nepal, passed away on Sunday while undergoing medical treatment.