HoR Discusses Social Security for Informal Workers and Budget Allocation Concerns

Nepali Congress lawmaker Bishwa Prakash Sharma today demanded the inclusion of informal sector workers under the social security umbrella. Speaking during the emergency hour of the House of Representatives meeting, Sharma emphasized the urgent need for occupational safety laws to protect workers. His call to action followed a tragic incident in Surkhet, where two individuals suffocated while cleaning a well on Monday.

Sharma urged the formulation of laws ensuring occupational safety and the integration of informal sector workers into the social security fund based on contributions. He highlighted the importance of this inclusion for the welfare and protection of unorganized sector workers.

In a related discussion, Hridaya Ram Thani criticized the government’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year, particularly the inadequate allocation for Karnali Province. Thani called for increased funding for road construction projects in Dolpa, Jajarkot, Mugu, and Humla, describing the current budget as insufficient.

Raghuji Panta drew attention to the service and facility issues faced by the Federal Parliament Secretariat staff. He urged the government to make immediate decisions regarding staff services, including the restoration of newspaper provisions for MPs. Panta appealed to the Finance Minister and Ministry to ensure that MPs receive their rightful services and allowances.

Addressing the impact of the monsoon season, Harka Maya BK demanded government relief efforts for the victims of natural disasters in eastern Nepal. She stressed the necessity of organized rescue and relief operations, as well as preparedness activities to mitigate further loss of lives and properties.

Additionally, Gyan Bahadur Shahi voiced dissatisfaction with the minimal budget allocated to Karnali Province. Abdul Khan called on the government to address issues faced by the crushers and mining industry entrepreneurs. Highlighting budget allocation inequalities, Amaresh Kumar Singh requested a response from Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on the matter.