KATHMANDU: A scheduled meeting of the Industry, Commerce, Labour and Consumer Welfare Committee under the House of Representatives was abruptly postponed on Thursday after Industry, Commerce and Supplies Minister Damodar Bhandari failed to attend, drawing sharp criticism from lawmakers.
The meeting, held at Singha Durbar, was called to discuss the availability and distribution of iodized salt across Nepal. Lawmakers expressed disappointment over the minister’s absence, saying it reflected a lack of seriousness on issues affecting public welfare.
Maoist Centre MP Surya Man Tamang questioned the minister’s work ethic, stating that repeated absences from committee summons raised doubts about his commitment.
“Without the minister’s presence, the committee cannot move forward with meaningful discussion,” he said.
Committee Chair Abdul Khan also expressed concern, saying the minister’s absence during a discussion on such a critical consumer issue was unacceptable.
“Despite being formally invited, the minister chose not to attend. This has drawn serious attention,” Khan remarked.
As lawmakers refused to express their views in the minister’s absence, the committee chair officially postponed the meeting until further notice.
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