Corruption and Governance Issues Highlighted in Nepal’s National Assembly

In a recent session of Nepal’s National Assembly, CPN (Maoist Centre) lawmaker Jhakku Prasad Subedi delivered a compelling address, urging both ruling and opposition parties to unite in combatting corruption. He emphasized that corruption and irregularities are major barriers to national prosperity, lamenting recent cases implicating high-ranking bureaucrats, including Government Chief Secretary Dr. Baikuntha Aryal.

Subedi’s remarks underscored the need for collaborative efforts to achieve good governance and combat systemic corruption, calling attention to the recent scandal involving Aryal and other government officials. He stressed the importance of bipartisan cooperation to root out corruption and ensure effective governance.

Calls for Action Against Violence Against Women and Children
Lawmakers in the National Assembly also voiced strong concerns over the escalating incidents of violence against women and children across Nepal. Sumitra BC condemned the recent rape of a 16-year-old girl in Achham and demanded swift action to apprehend the perpetrators. She urged the Home Minister to provide a detailed report to the parliament following an investigation into the incident.

BC further called for justice in another case where a 16-year-old woman in Bajura district was reportedly abetted to commit suicide, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures and effective law enforcement to safeguard vulnerable individuals.

Healthcare and Social Reform Advocated
Meanwhile, CPN (Unified Socialist) lawmaker Rajendra Laxmi Gaire focused on healthcare reform, urging the government to ensure the fundamental right to health for all citizens as guaranteed by the constitution. She raised concerns over the shortage of essential medicines like paracetamol and oral rehydration formulations in remote areas, urging swift action to address these critical gaps.

Gaire also advocated for the eradication of harmful practices such as the “Chhaugoth,” stressing the need for a nationwide campaign to abolish these structures where menstruating women are secluded, promoting greater social inclusivity and equality.

Cultural and International Concerns
In another noteworthy intervention, lawmaker Bamdev Gautam drew attention to a cultural issue with international implications. He raised concerns over a Shalgram boulder from Nepal being used in the construction of a Ram Temple in Ayodhya, India. Gautam called on the government to address this issue diplomatically and ensure the preservation of Nepal’s cultural heritage.