Rabindra Mishra’s Appeal to President: Redirect Europe Trip Budget to Earthquake Relief

In the wake of a devastating 6.14 magnitude earthquake that struck Jajarkot and Rukum West districts in Nepal, President Ramchandra Paudel’s upcoming visit to Europe has ignited controversy. Rabindra Mishra, the senior vice-chairman of the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP), took to Twitter to express his concerns, suggesting that the President should reconsider his trip and allocate the funds for earthquake relief and rescue efforts.

Taking to platform X Mishra writes, “Due to the earthquake, the extensive loss of property in Jajarkot, Rukum, and other parts of western Nepal has caused grief. Let’s all help each other in this time of crisis! It would be better for the President to cancel his trip to Europe at this time of national pain and spend the billions of dollars saved on relief and rescue.”

In response to this sentiment, the RPP has mobilized a team of volunteers under the leadership of Gyanendra Shahi, the chief whip of the parliamentary party. Additionally, the women’s organization of RPP is preparing to provide relief materials to the affected areas.

Meanwhile, President Paudel is scheduled to commence his European visit on November 8, which includes stops in Germany and Italy, with a prior engagement at the ‘Paris Peace Forum’ in France. The Council of Ministers approved his travel schedule during a meeting held on Thursday, before the earthquake occurred.

The earthquake, which had its epicenter in Lamidada, Jajarkot, struck at 11:47 PM, resulting in significant loss of life and property damage. The latest report from the Karnali Province Emergency Operations Center confirms a death toll of 133, with Jajarkot being the hardest-hit region, recording 95 fatalities, and Rukum West reporting 38 casualties.

As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this natural disaster, the debate surrounding the President’s overseas trip and the allocation of resources for earthquake relief continues to capture public attention.