Nepali Congress MP Sunil Bahadur Thapa Urges Permanent Reduction in Fuel Taxes

Kathmandu. Nepali Congress MP Sunil Bahadur Thapa has urged the government to permanently reduce taxes and indirect levies on fuel imports. He made this request during the special session of the National Assembly on Wednesday.

Welcoming the government's decision to reduce taxes and indirect charges on fuel imports, he suggested making this a long-term policy or conducting a comprehensive tax review. He noted that keeping fuel prices affordable would stimulate the overall economy. Citing the ongoing conflict in the Middle East as a threat to fuel supply, he urged the government to coordinate with the Indian government to ensure a continuous supply.

He stated, 'In today's era, any conflict has a global impact. This is particularly true for a landlocked country like Nepal. Given our dependence on India for energy supplies, I urge the Government of Nepal to monitor this situation closely and coordinate with the Indian government to ensure the continuity of fuel supplies. Furthermore, rising fuel prices will have a serious impact on the entire economy; in this context, I welcome the Finance Minister's decision to reduce taxes and indirect charges on fuel imports. However, I urge the government to permanently reduce or review such indirect taxes in the long term. Keeping fuel prices affordable is also a way to provide momentum to our economy.'

He also emphasized the need for unity, consensus, and cooperation in Nepali politics, suggesting that the government engage in dialogue with all political parties.