A linguistic skirmish: 'Violence' sparks parliamentary uproar

Kathmandu, August 28 — The House of Representatives erupted in controversy after CPN-UML MP Yogesh Bhattarai used the term "violence" during a session on Wednesday. Bhattarai used the term to refer to the 10-year-long war waged by the Maoists, which they refer to as the "People's War."

During Bhattarai’s speech, CPN-Maoist MP Madhav Sapkota raised an objection to the use of the word. Bhattarai responded by repeatedly stating, "Violence, violence, violence."

Sapkota questioned the relevance of the term and argued that the constitution does not reference violence in this context. In response, Bhattarai asserted that not allowing others to speak is also a form of violence and dismissed threats as ineffective.

The disagreement escalated as more Maoist MPs voiced their objections. Maoist MP Devendra Poudel demanded that Bhattarai’s remarks be removed from the official record, claiming that they undermined the peace process.

Despite the protests, Speaker Devraj Ghimire permitted Bhattarai to continue speaking, prompting further objections from Maoist Chief Whip Hitaraj Pandey. The Speaker then announced that the Secretariat would investigate the use of the term "violence" and address the concerns raised.