KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress whip Nishcal Rai has called on the government to introduce a clear rehabilitation master plan for victims of the recent floods.
Speaking at the House of Representatives meeting on Wednesday, Rai said providing only relief packages to flood victims would not fulfil the state’s responsibility. He called for a comprehensive rehabilitation plan covering the development of safe settlements, employment, education, healthcare and psychosocial counselling.
He also said food and cooking gas prices had increased sharply in the market under the pretext of the floods, with reports of widespread black marketing. Rai said that even after a change in the supply minister, citizens had not felt any reduction in the cost of living.
He called for strict monitoring of the market through parliamentary committees to control price hikes and black marketing.
Rai also objected to what he described as threatening remarks from members of the ruling side directed at citizens, critics and journalists. He said politics led by the new generation should not simply mean a change of faces, but should also bring a new political culture, accountability and the rule of law.
He suggested that when the prime minister participates in the United Nations General Assembly, Nepal should present scientific facts and a common voice representing all political parties on the international stage.
Rai said the Nepali Congress would continue to provide unconditional support to the government during national crises while maintaining parliamentary scrutiny over violations of citizens’ rights, rising prices and corruption.
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