NA Member Bishwakarma Highlights Challenges in Law Implementation and Governance

National Assembly (NA) member Tul Prasad Bishwakarma, who has been in office for the past three months, has shared a mix of experiences in his legislative role, highlighting both challenges and concerns regarding governance and law enforcement in Nepal.

Speaking on his parliamentary experience, Bishwakarma expressed disappointment that many lawmakers prioritize personal and political interests over legislative responsibilities. “Instead of focusing on public issues, most lawmakers seem more interested in securing government positions,” he remarked. He also pointed out that dominant political parties tend to influence parliamentary proceedings based on their own agendas, often sidelining public concerns.

According to Bishwakarma, the full implementation of Nepal’s constitution remains a challenge. Several key laws mandated by the constitution are yet to be drafted, and the enforcement of existing laws has been weak. He specifically cited the Caste-based Discrimination and Untouchability (Offense and Punishment) Act, enacted 13 years ago, which he believes has not been effectively implemented. “Dalits continue to face discrimination and violence, while perpetrators remain unpunished,” he noted, criticizing the government’s lack of urgency in enacting additional laws to protect marginalized communities.

He also raised concerns about the practice of issuing ordinances when the parliament is in session, questioning its validity. Furthermore, he criticized the federal system, calling it an expensive model for a geographically small country like Nepal.

To ensure good governance, Bishwakarma called for stronger law enforcement, transparency in government affairs, and improvements in the rights of women, Madhesis, indigenous groups, Muslims, and other marginalized communities. He also emphasized the need for industrial development to address the ongoing migration of youths seeking employment abroad. “Nepal must adopt and promote applied and vocational education to align with the demands of the job market,” he stated.

Bishwakarma, a central advisor to the Rastriya Janamorcha, was born on September 17, 1958 (Asoj 1, 2015 BS) in Baglung.