The House of Representatives has plunged into a severe deadlock as opposition lawmakers disrupted proceedings today, forcing Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal to adjourn the session. Despite an all-party meeting convened by ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chair Rabi Lamichhane to kick off negotiations, the opposition maintained its strict stance. They are demanding an official apology, evidence, or the immediate expungement of Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s controversial remarks claiming that Nepal has encroached upon Indian territory.
This marks the first time since the historic March 5 election that a House meeting has been called off via a posted notice, following an initial 15-minute adjournment that failed to resolve the impasse. While the RSP argued that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already issued clarifications, major opposition forces—including the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML—refused to back down. They insist that the Prime Minister must personally address the Parliament, warning that critical budget discussions remain entirely stalled due to the ongoing protests.
Compounding the government’s challenges, the parliamentary session also saw heated demands for accountability over an unfolding electric vehicle customs scandal. Legislators raised alarm over the Armed Police Force’s recent seizure of 779 electric vehicles, primarily BYD models, amid allegations of revenue violations.
Opposition leaders strongly criticized the government-led probe committee, alleging that Finance Minister Swarnim Waglé manipulated tax rates to facilitate irregularities. Demanding the formation of an independent parliamentary investigation committee, lawmakers argued that internal government inquiries lack credibility. They emphasized that the public is tired of self-clearing ministerial probes, demanding strict parliamentary oversight and consequences for those found responsible.