National Assembly Members Raise Concerns on Fertilizer Shortage, Press Freedom, and Security Challenges

Kathmandu. Members of the National Assembly have drawn the government's attention to contemporary issues including the widespread fertilizer shortage in the country, interference with press freedom, the squatter problem, and security challenges. Speaking during the zero hour of the meeting, the members demanded the immediate resolution of farmers' problems and the establishment of the rule of law.

Member Gita Devkota demanded an end to the situation of 'fertilizer on paper, devastation in the field,' stating that although the government's statistics show fertilizer availability, it has not reached the farmers' fields. Member Sunil Bahadur Thapa informed that only 31.5 percent of the paddy has been transplanted so far due to fertilizer shortage in Koshi Province, stating that the Agriculture Minister must take responsibility for the potential famine.

Similarly, Member Samjhana Devkota, referring to the damage to Chaithe paddy and other crops in Gorkha, urged the government to provide appropriate compensation and fertilizer-seeds to the farmers.

Members Meena Singh Rakhal, Sunil Bahadur Thapa, and Khamm Bahadur Khati strongly condemned the incident where vehicles were parked across the road in front of media houses and the residences of political leaders, obstructing traffic. They termed this as 'pressure on the press in the guise of state power' and 'vehicle terror,' demanding action against the culprits and an impartial investigation into the incident. They emphasized the need to listen to criticism and respect press freedom in a democracy.

Member Ram Kumari Jhankri demanded that the government provide written information to the House about the laws and service conditions under which advisors, personal secretaries, and researchers of cabinet members have been appointed. Stating that parallel power is being operated in the name of advisors and confusion is being created, she said this must be rectified.

Likewise, Member Roshani Mechhe, presenting data showing that the number of drug users in Nepal is increasing by 5.06 percent annually, drew the government's attention to treat this as a serious humanitarian crisis and formulate effective policies. Member Ranjit Karna expressed concern that Nepal is becoming a 'mini Thailand' and that women and children are being involved in sex trafficking.

Speaking on security and social justice issues, Member Dharmendra Paswan informed about the incident of an attempted abduction of a girl and an attack on a Dalit family in Golbazar, Siraha, demanding immediate action against the culprits. Member Rekha Kumari Jha alerted the government to fulfill its commitment of land deeds and relief for citizens living in squatter settlements and holding centers, who are deprived of basic facilities.