KATHMANDU: Opposition parties have intensified their criticism of the government, accusing it of legitimizing black market practices through an ordinance.
During a meeting of the Public Accounts Committee on Wednesday, lawmakers warned of disrupting the upcoming federal parliament session, scheduled to begin on January 31, if the government fails to address their concerns.
Maoist Centre lawmaker Rajan Dahal accused the government of enabling black market activities by amending the act through an ordinance. He demanded the repeal of the ordinance, stating that it undermines accountability to the public.
Dahal highlighted the surge in cement prices following the ordinance, which allowed industrialists to hike prices significantly.
The price of PPC cement has risen from Rs 365 to Rs 670, while OPC cement now costs Rs 750, up from Rs 465.
“The government has given legitimacy to the black market. Why increase cement prices? To harm the people?” Dahal questioned.
Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Supplies Damodar Bhandari faced criticism from lawmakers for the price hikes.
Dahal alleged that the amendment to the Black Market Act, which removed provisions for action against excessive profit margins, was designed to benefit middlemen and harm ordinary citizens.
Independent MP Dr Amaresh Kumar Singh accused the government of profiting from VAT on inflated cement prices, calling it a “game to make billions.”
“The government has become a representative of the black market, prioritizing revenue over people’s welfare,” he said.
Maoist Centre lawmaker Aman Lal Modi warned of a potential parliamentary boycott if the Public Accounts Committee chairman, Hrishikesh Pokharel, did not step down.
Modi cited a conflict of interest, as both Pokharel and the Prime Minister belong to the same party.
“If this situation persists, we may be forced to boycott Parliament,” he said.
The cement price hike has emerged as a flashpoint, with opposition lawmakers demanding immediate action to protect consumers and ensure transparency.
The Public Accounts Committee has vowed to continue scrutinizing the government’s decisions and hold officials accountable for the economic strain placed on citizens.
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