Kathmandu— During a meeting of the House of Representatives (HoR) on Friday, numerous lawmakers addressed pressing contemporary issues facing Nepal, including shortages of cooking gas and chemical fertilizer, rising prices impacting citizens’ access to basic necessities, monsoon-related disasters, threats from wildlife, and the plight of Nepali migrant workers abroad. The concerns were raised during a zero hour session where members demanded government attention and action on these critical matters.

Supply Shortages and Rising Costs

Buddha Ratna Maharjan urged the government to promptly ensure access to healthcare, roadways, seeds, and chemical fertilizers for all citizens. Basana Thapa highlighted that increasing price hikes are creating significant challenges for people attempting to afford adequate food. These concerns reflect broader anxieties about economic stability and access to essential resources within Nepal.

Migrant Worker Protection

Balawati Sharma called for an end to the exploitation of Nepali foreign migrant workers, who often fall victim to fraud and dangerous situations while seeking employment abroad. This plea underscores the vulnerability of Nepalis working overseas and the need for stronger protections and support systems.

Broad Range of Concerns Voiced

A significant number of lawmakers – including Bina Gurung, Buddhi Prasad Pant, Basumaya Tamang, Bharat Kumar Swar, and many others – used the zero hour session to draw attention to a variety of contemporary issues affecting their constituents. Rachana Khatiwada, Rabin Mahato, Rajani Shrestha, and over twenty additional members also participated in raising these concerns before the House.

Following Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal’s ruling on Monday directing the Prime Minister to respond to lawmakers’ concerns, opposition members ended their protest as of Friday.

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.