KATHMANDU: Chief Whip of the ruling CPN-UML, Mahesh Bartaula, has accused the opposition parties of exhibiting “unparliamentary and non-political behavior” in the federal parliament.
Speaking to journalists outside the parliament building in New Baneshwor on Wednesday, Bartaula expressed concern over the opposition’s continued obstruction in response to the visit visa controversy involving Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak.
Bartaula said that it was unjustified for the opposition to bar the Home Minister from speaking in the House, especially when allegations had been leveled against him.
“He must be allowed to clarify his position before the House,” he said.
Calling the opposition’s approach “regrettable,” Bartaula accused them of imposing a blockade on the government’s access to the rostrum, a move he deemed unacceptable in a democratic framework.
He also criticized the restriction placed on ruling party lawmakers, who he said are being denied the opportunity to raise issues of public concern.
Bartaula’s remarks come amid a heated political standoff, with opposition parties demanding the resignation of the Home Minister over his alleged involvement in visa-related irregularities, and vowing to paralyze parliament proceedings until their demand is met.
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