KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Balen Shah has come under renewed criticism after his controversial statement that Nepal has also encroached on Indian territory sparked outrage among opposition parties and on social media.
The controversy began on Sunday when the Prime Minister unexpectedly appeared in the House of Representatives and sought time to address lawmakers through Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal. Responding to questions raised by opposition lawmakers, Shah stated that Nepal had also encroached on Indian land, a remark that has since triggered widespread political backlash.
The issue dominated Monday’s parliamentary proceedings, with opposition parties presenting a united front against the government. Opposition lawmakers staged protests and chanted slogans inside the House, demanding clarification and accountability from the Prime Minister.
Amid the protests, Speaker Aryal allowed opposition lawmakers to present their views.
Speaking on behalf of the opposition, Chief Whip of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist), Ain Mahar, accused the Prime Minister of repeatedly disrespecting Parliament.
Mahar strongly objected to Shah’s remarks on Nepal-India border issues and also criticized his attire during the parliamentary appearance.
“When the Prime Minister visits the army, he appears in formal national dress. But when he comes to Parliament, he arrives in football-style clothing. Parliament is being turned into a fashion show venue,” Mahar said.
The UML chief whip demanded that the Prime Minister’s statement be removed from the official parliamentary record and called on him to issue a public apology.
The controversy has intensified pressure on the Prime Minister, with opposition parties warning that parliamentary obstruction will continue unless he retracts the statement and clarifies his position on Nepal’s territorial claims and border policy.
Comment