Lawmakers urge government to address poverty, rising suicides and discrimination

May 19, Kathmandu: Lawmakers in the House of Representatives have urged the government to adopt policies aimed at eliminating poverty rather than removing poor people from Kathmandu, while also calling for serious action to address the growing number of suicide cases across the country.

Speaking during the emergency and zero hour of today’s House meeting at Singha Durbar, lawmakers stressed the need for sensitive investigations into suicide cases and demanded action against those found responsible for driving individuals to take such steps. They also urged the government to introduce special programmes to end untouchability and caste-based discrimination against the Dalit community.

During discussions on the principles and priorities of the Appropriation Bill for the fiscal year 2026/2027, lawmakers called on the government to clearly state whether the under-construction cable car project at Pathibhara Temple in Taplejung will move forward or be halted. They also demanded timely completion of road construction projects underway across the country.

Lawmakers also expressed concern over the increasing exploitation of rivers in different parts of Nepal. They called for scientific management of river-based resources, strict implementation of environmental impact assessments, and tough action against those involved in illegal extraction activities. In addition, they urged the government to ensure timely supply of chemical fertilisers to farmers.

Raising issues faced by farmers in Lamjung, lawmakers said irrigation problems have continued for years and demanded the immediate construction of the Handetar and Rainas irrigation projects. They also urged the government to ensure an impartial investigation by the commission formed to probe former Home Minister Sudan Gurung.

Following the completion of the zero hour session, the House began discussions on the principles and priorities of the Appropriation Bill. Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle is scheduled to respond to the issues raised during today’s meeting.