Lawmakers raise issues of public importance

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Feb. 8: Lawmakers at the House of Representatives meeting on Friday discussed key legislative matters, local issues and pressing political demands.  

The Chairman of the Industry, Commerce, Labour and Consumer Welfare Committee, Abdul Khan, presented the Committee Report on the Electronic Trade Bill 2024 in the House. Khan highlighted that with the growing popularity of electronic trade in Nepal, particularly in sectors like job creation, supply of goods, and export promotion, it was essential to regulate its market.

 “The bill outlines provisions to ensure that online transactions are systematic, reliable, and aligned with national standards,” he said.  

Similarly, Law, Justice and Parliament Affairs Minister Ajay Kumar Chaurasia presented the Legislative Arrangement Bill 2024, urging the House to pass the proposal. Minister Chaurasia highlighted that the bill, which originated in the National Assembly, aims to streamline the legislative process, making it more transparent and efficient. 

Lawmaker Purna Bahadur Gharti voiced strong support, stating that the bill would play a pivotal role in establishing the rule of law and ensuring that the law-making process is more transparent. Lawmaker Achyut Prasad Mainali expressed his confidence that this legislation would end the practice of laws being made to serve the interests of select groups or individuals.  

During the zero hour, a political debate unfolded with Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSWP) lawmakers calling for lifting the suspension of their president, Rabi Lamichhane, from the Member of Parliament. 

Lawmaker Dol Prasad Aryal said Lamichhane was being politically targeted and framed in cases regarding cooperatives. He demanded that the Speaker immediately reinstate Lamichhane’s position while he remains out of jail.

Several lawmakers raised local concerns regarding infrastructure development projects. Lawmaker Thakur Prasad Gaire called for the timely completion of the Butwal-Palpa road project, while lawmaker Tara Lama Tamang highlighted the plight of sugarcane farmers and demanded they receive payments on time. Other lawmakers voiced similar concerns about issues in their constituencies, including health services and infrastructure.  

The lawmakers also drew attention to the unresolved demands of Swargadwari Guthi victims, urging the government to address their grievances.  

House Speaker Devraj Ghimire adjourned the meeting until 1:00 pm February 8.