KATHMANDU: Jhalnath Khanal, former Prime Minister and leader of CPN (Unified Socialist), has vehemently criticized the recent agreement between Nepal and India concerning High-impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs).

In a press statement, Khanal expressed his deep concerns, labeling the pact as an “anti-national agreement.”

The crux of Khanal’s objections lies in the provision allowing the Indian government to unilaterally implement and execute projects worth Rs 200 million across Nepal. According to Khanal, such an arrangement is unnatural and runs counter to the interests of a sovereign and independent nation. His statement emphasized that this agreement is both detrimental to the welfare of the country and a source of shame.

Issuing a warning, Khanal stated that if the government does not revise the agreement, he anticipates protests and street struggles. He underscored that the accord not only opposes national interests but also infringes upon the sovereign rights of the people.

“I strongly oppose this agreement,” declared Khanal, emphasizing its anti-national nature. He criticized the agreement as part of a historical trend to undermine the independence and sovereignty of Nepal, dating back to the Panchayat regime and continuing beyond the mass movement of 2062/63.

Khanal expressed disappointment in the actions of leftist leader Dahal, accusing him of making an “unimaginable anti-national agreement with India” against the expectations and desires of the Nepali people.

Furthermore, Khanal asserted that the exclusive right to allocate a budget for the country’s development lies with Nepal and its people. He categorically stated that no foreign embassy should have the authority or be granted the right to allocate budgets and execute projects within Nepal.