National Assembly Lawmakers Criticize Government Over Border Restrictions with India

Kathmandu. National Assembly lawmakers have expressed strong opposition to the government's recent tightening of security at the Nepal-India border. Speaking at a meeting of the 'Development, Economic Affairs, and Good Governance Committee' under the National Assembly, several members voiced their disapproval of the government's decision.

During the meeting, Loktantrik Samajwadi Party (LSP) Chairman and lawmaker Mahantha Thakur led the criticism, prompting other members to demand immediate government attention. Thakur highlighted that the unnecessary restrictions at the border are causing daily hardships for citizens living in the Madhesh region and surrounding border areas.

Thakur emphasized that the open border between Nepal and India, along with their centuries-old social, cultural, and familial ties, should not be disrupted in the name of security or customs. He expressed dissatisfaction over reports that security personnel are harassing ordinary citizens who cross the border for household needs and daily essentials.

'The lives and daily routines of the Madhesi people living in the border areas are directly linked to the markets across the border,' Thakur stated during the meeting. 'However, the current strict checks and surveillance are causing citizens to face harassment at every step. Treating ordinary people like criminals must stop.'

He noted that while border checks should be organized, the tendency to terrorize and harass ordinary citizens in the process is unacceptable.

Thakur has demanded that the government immediately stop the harassment of civilians at the border and ensure smooth movement for daily life.

Lawmaker Ghanshyam Rijal suggested that the committee should direct the government to facilitate easier movement, describing the current treatment of border residents as inhumane.

Similarly, lawmaker Urmila Aryal stated that inhumane treatment of people at the border must stop immediately. She argued that while smuggling should be curbed, citizens should be allowed to bring in small quantities of goods for personal use.

Lawmaker Narayan Dutta Bhatta also echoed the need to stop the harassment of the public at the border, urging the government to implement policies based on practical realities.

Committee member Samjhana Devkota also supported the need to ease border restrictions and suggested that the committee issue a directive to facilitate this.

Likewise, lawmaker Rekha Kumari Jha mentioned that people are facing difficulties even when bringing just one kilogram of goods from India, emphasizing that the government should immediately stop such practices and provide relief.