Economic prosperity, one of the priorities of govt: Home Minister Lekhak

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has said that achieving economic prosperity is one of the priorities of the incumbent government.

In his address to a press meet organized by the Nepal Press Union in Mahendranagar today, the Home Minister said the Nepali Congress-CPN-UML government aims to achieve economic prosperity, good governance, durable peace and accelerate the mission for development and prosperity.

"The two major political parties formed the coalition government for bringing political stability and durable peace in the nation," the Minister who represented the NC in the government said.

He took time to say that the government is preparing for summoning the Parliament session soon. "Once the winter session of the Parliament convenes, the first day is expected to see the presentations of recently issued ordinances which will be later replaced by laws."

He urged one and all to be confident that the government will last until the upcoming general elections to take place in 2084 BS. "We have no issues at all."

The Home Minister said the government is committed to addressing issues regarding the construction of a bridge over the Mahakali River and building a dry port in Dodhara Chandani soon.

Home Minister Lekhak calls for collective efforts to combat drug abuse

 

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has called for collective efforts to launch a campaign addressing drug abuse, suicidal tendencies, and road accidents.

During his address to a sports festival organized by the National Private and Boarding Schools Association of Nepal (N-PABSAN) Kanchanpur in Mahendrangar today, the minister said drug abuse, suicides, and road fatalities remain significant concerns in society and require collaborative efforts to mitigate.

He emphasized that adolescents are especially vulnerable to drug abuse, underscoring the importance of a school-level campaign to raise awareness about its consequences and help keep them away from it.

The minister also reminded stakeholders of the constitutional provisions for free and basic education, urging everyone to ensure the effective implementation of these provisions and to work toward improving the quality of education.

Regarding the federal bill on school education, Minister Lekhak informed that discussions are underway in Parliament.

He added the government will focus on making quality education more accessible and is committed to creating an environment that will facilitate the swift endorsement of the bill.

Damage assessment and reconstruction will be expedited: Home Minister Lekhak

Minister for Home Affairs Ramesh Lekhak has said that reconstruction of physical infrastructures damaged by earthquake, and floods and landslides is progressing at a rapid pace.

Addressing the 28th meeting of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) today, Home Minister Lekhak said that the assessment of the damage caused by the disaster and reconstruction works would be speeded up.

"Today's meeting decided to start the disaster damage assessment (DDA) work on the damage caused by the earthquake, and floods and landslides in Doti, Bajura, Bajhang and Jajarkot and to proceed ahead with the reconstruction works in the areas where the DDA has already been carried out," he said.

Home Minister Lekhak said that decisions have been taken on the legal and economic issues required for the reconstruction in places where the DDA has been conducted.

"The disaster risk reduction and management standards have been passed some time ago. We have approved the work procedure in this regard today. Assessment of disaster damage of the Jajarkot earthquake will begin from the first week of February," he said.

According to him, this decision shall be presented in the meeting of the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council scheduled to be held at 7 pm today at the Prime Minister's official residence in Baluwatar. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will preside over this meeting.

Minister Lekhak said that the reconstruction work will be expedited after today's council meeting takes a decision.

 

Legitimate acquisition of citizenship will be simplified: Home Minister Lekhak

 

Minister for Home Affairs Ramesh Lekhak gas said that the acquisition of citizenship in accordance with the Constitution and laws would be eased.

The Home Minister said this while receiving the report submitted by the Citizenship Problem Resolution Study Committee at the Ministry in Singha Durbar on Friday. "Those people eligible for the citizenship as per the Constitution and the related laws should get the citizenship.

However, there should not be a situation in which ineligible people get the citizenship. We are explicit on these two things," he asserted.

Stating that the citizenship is a highly sensitive issue, Home Minister Lekhak said this topic should be considered seriously and in a responsible manner. "Citizenship should not be denied in the name of procedural hassles and the verdicts related to citizenship given by the Honourable Supreme Court from time to time should be respected.

Directives have been frequently issued in this connection. The government is moving ahead to resolve the problems seen in the acquisition of citizenship taking all these things into consideration," he added.

The Committee prepared its report with recommendations after studying the court verdicts, the existing legal provisions and the complications seen on the topic of citizenship distribution at various District Administration Offices.

Minister Lekhak said that the Ministry will minutely study the report and implement it. The report includes recommendations on various topics, including the topic of making issuance of citizenship to children born of mother holding the Nepali citizenship.

The Ministry of Home Affairs had formed the five-member Committee on August 16. Joint Secretary at the Ministry Dr Tok Raj Pandey was its convenor.

Home Minister Lekhak directs Nepal Police to take action against those involved in leaking RSP President Lamichhane’s custody photo

 

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has reiterated that all would be treated equally as per the law and the government is committed to take action against anyone involved in criminal activities.

Talking to journalists in Chitwan today, Minister Lekhak said all the accused in the cooperative fraud would be brought to book, adding that there would be fair investigation on all those charged in cooperative fund misappropriation and the guilty would face action.

He said that police have been instructed to take action against the person who posted in the social media site a photo of Rabi Lamichhane, the President of Rastriya Swatantra Party, who is in police custody in Kaski on a case of cooperative fraud.

The Home Minister also said a directive has been given to take action against the police persons involved in neglecting the security and sensitivity of the custody.

On a different note, he said the present government would not be changed and the ministers too.

He insisted that the present coalition will continue until 2084 BS.

Constitution will be amended on consensus of all: Home Minister

 

Minister for Home Affairs Ramesh Lekhak has said that consensus from all political parties will be ensured to amend the Constitution.

He was speaking at a press meet organized by the Nepal Press Union, Chitwan chapter today.

He stressed the need of the constitution amendment for strengthening the federal democratic republic and the inclusion. "The preliminary dialogue on this issue has commenced. But, the constitution amendment will not be determined by two political parties."

He went on to say that the Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML, the largest parties in the parliament, had decided to form the incumbent coalition government to promote political stability, prevent corruption, strengthen good governance and economic activities and accelerate the pace of development.

The Minister announced that the existing political alliance between the NC and UML has no issues and it will continue until the next general election to take place in 2084 BS. On a different note, he claimed that the government is highly aware of the guarantee of human rights of each citizen.

He added that the government has no feeling of 'revenge' against Rabi Lamichhane, the Chair of Rastriya Swatantra Party, as the current investigation against him is a legal issue. "It is not expected to raise questions over the legal proceedings in the case," he added.

 

Home Minister vows free, fair criminal probes

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has pledged to uphold a strict, uncompromising approach to criminal investigations.

During a meeting of the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee of the House of Representatives on Monday, MPs questioned the arrest of former Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane. In response, Minister Lekhak assured that all individuals accused of corruption, fraud or other criminal activities will be brought under probe regardless of political affiliations. “There is no discrimination; the ruling party does not differentiate between the opposition or any other party,” he said. “We base our actions on facts.”

He emphasized that evidence guides the direction of investigations and that the government will not misuse the law to target, harm or harass anyone. “Investigations are fair and independent. We seek court approval as per the need,” he said, urging the public to trust the government’s adherence to legal boundaries.

Meanwhile, Nepali Congress General Secretary Gagan Kumar Thapa has also urged the government to initiate an immediate investigation into Congress leader Dhanraj Gurung and CPN-UML MP Rishikesh Pokharel for their alleged involvement in a cooperative scam. Thapa stated that the Parliamentary Investigation Special Committee on the Misuse of Cooperative Savings found evidence implicating Congress Vice-president Gurung and UML MP Pokharel in the case, stressing that the government must promptly investigate and bring them to justice if they are found guilty.

Addressing a festive greeting exchange program organized by Nepal Rastra Bank in Kathmandu on Monday, Thapa argued that timely action against anyone involved in fraud will help build public trust. “The embezzlers of cooperatives number in the hundreds. Around 500 to 600 people are under prosecution, while another 500 to 700 have been absconding. Bring all of them under investigation, whether the case is new or old,” he urged. “The committee supports this approach, and we call on the government to handle these matters thoroughly. This also concerns the credibility of the common citizen.”

He added, “There is ongoing public discussion about the involvement of Congress Vice-president Dhanraj Gurung. I urge the government to conduct a thorough probe. CPN-UML’s Rishikesh Pokharel has also been named. Investigate thoroughly and prosecute if wrongdoing is found. Punish those responsible.”

Home Minister Lekhak lauds NRNs' role in promoting national unity

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has said the non-resident Nepalis (NRNs) have contributed to the strengthening of Nepal's unity.

In his address to a program organized here today, marking the NRNA Day and AGM, the minister referred to NRNs as honorary ambassadors of Nepal.

On the occasion, he said the government is preparing for legal amendments to promote the economic, social, and cultural rights of the NRN community. He urged them to always stand for a prosperous Nepal with the establishment of democracy and a rule of law.

NRNA President Dr Badri KC said the NRNs are interested in investing in Nepal and urged the government to create an investment-friendly atmosphere.

NRNA former President Dr Upendra Mahato stressed the need to resolve disputes seen within the Association.

Home Minister Lekhak visits disaster-hit Bhumidanda, Bethanchowk in Kavre

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak today visited the Roshi Bazaar area in Kalanti Bhumidanda of Panauti Municipality-12 and Partikharka, Salandubagar and Chalal Ganeshthan of Bethanchowk Rural Municipality-4 in Kavrepalanchowk.

The areas were severely affected by the recent flooding and landslides.

During the visit, he interacted with the locals who survived the devastating flood from the Roshi River.

Panauti Municipality Mayor Ram Sharan Bhandari briefed the minister about the losses from the disaster, its consequences on people's lives including food and health needs, and the local government's efforts to address the post-disaster situation.

Similarly, at Bethanchowk, Rural Municipality Chair Bhagawan Adhikari updated the minister about the adversity the locals are enduring after the disasters and the measures implemented by the local government to address the situation. He said search, rescue, food supplies, health services, and transport facilities are the priorities of the local government in the wake of the disasters.

He is scheduled to attend a meeting of the District Disaster Management Committee today itself and visit the Chaukidanda in Namobuddha Municipality and the Katunje section of Roshi Rural Municipality along the BP Highway to assess the disaster losses.  

Post-disaster response is government high priority: Home Minister

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has said that the recent flooding and landslides caused by the monsoon rains have so far resulted in 218 deaths, the missing of 27 people, and 143 injuries. He said the government is engaged in the post-disaster response with high priority.

In a meeting of the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee, House of Representatives, today, the minister said that the government is focused on the search, rescue, and relief efforts in the wake of disasters.

Search and rescue operations are underway, he said. The distribution of relief materials to the affected is going on. The injured are being treated free of cost.  The District Disaster Management Committees are focused on the dispatch of relief materials and the rehabilitation of the survivors in an effective way.

According to the minister, a total of 4,022 people trapped in the districts were rescued with the help of the Nepal Army, Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and volunteers.

The Kathmandu Valley and the Bagmati Province were affected the most by the rains which is said to be the most significant in the 50 years.

A total of 3,906 Nepal Army soldiers, 14,802 personnel of the Nepal Police, and 12,023 of the Armed Police Force have been mobilized for the search and rescue operations after the disasters.

 

Committee should be clear on bringing private sector under CIAA jurisdiction: Minister Lekhak

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has stressed that the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee should be clear in principle on the issue of bringing the private sector under the jurisdiction of the Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority.

In today's meeting of the State Affairs and Good Governance Committee under the House of Representatives held at Singha Durbar, Home Minister Lekhak pointed out the need of holding more discussion in the committee to be clear on the issue whether or not to enter the private sector.

"At first principle must be set. If principle is set, the language will be written accordingly. Writing the language is not difficult", he mentioned.

Lawmakers have started discussion in the Committee over the provision of bringing the private sector under the jurisdiction of CIAA.

 

Home Minister Lekhak urges not to doubt on NC-UML agreement

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has shared that the government has set a target of developing Dodhara Chandani of Kanchanpur as the largest checkpoint.

"Discussions are underway for developing Kanchanpur as the tri-national border", mentioned Home Minister Lekhak.

He explained that a decision was already taken to establish immigration office at Tinkar of Darchula in the near future which would connect Kanchanpur with China.

At a press meet organized by Press Union Kanchanpur at Mahendranagar today, the Home Minister stressed that India was ready to construct Dohara Chandani dry port, adding, activities for its construction would begin soon.

Stating that a new political equation between the two largest parties in the Parliament—CPN-UML and Nepali Congress was made, he urged one and all not to doubt the understanding reached between the two parties.

"The government has been formed by signing a seven-point agreement between the two parties. This alliance will exist till the coming election", underlined the Home Minister.

On the occasion, he shared, "I have taken the Nirmala Panta murder case seriously. This case will be thoroughly investigated."

A 13-year-old Nirmala Panta of Bhimdutta Municipality-2 in Kanchanpur was murdered after the rape on July 26, 2018.

 

Civic service is government's first priority: Minister Lekhak

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has said that providing quality services to citizens is the government's top priority.

Speaking at the inauguration of a newly-constructed building for the Nepal Police's Provincial Office in Mahendranagar today, he expressed his belief that the new facility will enhance the police's ability to serve the public more effectively.

During the ceremony, the Home Minister acknowledged that the Nepal Police is bound to function amidst limited resources and called for improved competency in investigations to meet contemporary demands. He highlighted the growing challenge of cybercrime, which has, as he said, caused additional responsibilities for the police.

Minister Lekhak also said that the Nepali Congress-CPN-UML coalition government was formed on the basis of the seven-point agreement between the two major political parties. He asserted that this collaboration aims to address key national issues, referencing historical instances where the Congress and UML have worked together on significant matters, such as drafting the interim constitution and advancing the peace process.

The Minister urged one and all to have confidence in the implementation of the seven-point agreement.

Inspector General of Nepal Police, Basanta Bahadur Kunwar, stated that delivering quality service to citizens remains a priority for the Nepal Police. He added that the police are currently focusing on infrastructure development to support this goal. He said that effective crime investigation relies heavily on infrastructure, legal frameworks, and the society's cooperation.

The Nepal Police had awarded the construction contract for the new building to Ashish Construction on December 15, 2022 at a cost of Rs 132.6 million.

TRC bill will now be endorsed by Parliament: Home Minister Lekhak

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has said that the TRC bill will be endorsed in the Parliament.

Home Minister Lekhak expressed his belief that the TRC bill will now be endorsed by the Parliament after a meeting of the taskforce formed to resolve the transitional issues held at the Home Ministry in Singha Durbar forged consensus on the disputed issues.

He said that an agreement was reached on the four disputed issues of the TRC bill after a long discussion.

Minister Lekhak informed that the report will be submitted to the senior leaders within a few days.

He said that there is no doubt that the bill will be passed from the Parliament as an agreement has already been reached on the disagreements.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Minister Lekhak said, “The taskforce was formed by the senior leaders of the three major political parties. At the same time, a discussion was also held to rope in other parties in the taskforce. As this is the common and country’s issue, this will be endorsed by the Parliament.”

 

Home Minister calls for coordination to improve prisons, child correction homes

Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak has pointed out the need for coordination among federation, province and local level in the improvement of prisons and child correction homes.

In today's meeting of the Law, Justice and Human Rights Committee under the House of Representatives, Home Minister Lekhak said, "There is a high number of prisoners in jails across the country. The jails lack physical infrastructures."

He laid emphasis on the need of constructing physical infrastructures, adding there is also lack of space and physical infrastructures in child correction homes.

"There are nine child correction homes in eight districts. Condition of all correction homes should be improved ", explained the Home Minister.

Home Minister Lekhak said the government would pay attention to the issue of daily allowance of the prisoners, assuring that the government would address the problems related to health and hygiene they are facing.

The government was serious about skill development and income generation of prisoners, stressed the Home Minister, pointing out the need of developing prisons as skill development centers.

He laid emphasis on the need for arrangements of health insurance and skill as well as counseling programs.

The government, however, would move ahead as per the recent directives of the Supreme Court regarding imprisonment exemption, asserted Home Minister Lekhak. 

The Home Minister further said the government would pay attention to lessen and control rape and crime related to drugs.  He expressed commitment that the government would be accountable and responsible towards Parliament and Parliamentary committees, adding the government would take the directives of committees seriously as well as implement them.

In the meeting of the committee, Home Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal said that 10 of the 72 prisons in the country are currently being upgraded. "Capacity development of prisoners and library work is being done."Prisoners learn skills until they stay in prison," said Home Secretary Aryal, "Even after release from prison, they can get jobs accordingly."

He informed that the work of ensuring the prisoners' health has been advanced. In the event, three sub-committees formed by the Law, Justice and Human Rights Committee to monitor juvenile correctional facilities and prisons across the country submitted a report to the Home Minister.

The report mentions the overall condition of children's correctional homes, prisons, the challenges faced there and the work to be done and improvements. The MPs participating in the meeting suggested that the children's correctional home should be organized as soon as possible.

Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Ajay Kumar Chaurasia and Minister for Women, Children and Senior Citizens Navalkishore Shah Sudi were also present in the committee meeting today.

In the meeting, Law Minister Chaurasia said that he will take initiatives to implement all laws related to human rights made according to the constitution. Similarly, Minister Sudi opined to manage separate place to children in prisons. 

 

Human trafficking is on the rise, work cautiously: Home Minister Lekhak tells immigration officials

Minister for Home Affairs Ramesh Lekhak has expressed commitment to extend support in formulation of Acts and laws related to immigration.

After inspecting the Department of Immigration today, Home Minister Lekhak directed the Department to submit acts, rules, procedure and regulations at the Home Ministry within a month.

He also instructed the Department to forward the process for the establishment of immigration offices at Tinkar of Darchula and Korala of Mustang.

Saying allegations of involvement of immigration staff in human trafficking activities be untrue, the Home Minister warned of taking stern action if found guilty.

He further said that human trafficking is on the rise and directed the immigration officials to act cautiously.

Minister Lekhak asked concerned employees to behave well with all passengers.

Laying emphasis on the need of operating immigration offices in full-capacity, Home Secretary Ek Narayan Aryal mentioned the Department should carry out activities coordinating with all government bodies.

He pointed out the need for collaboration and coordination among the Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Ministry and the line offices.

Similarly, Director General of the Department, Kosh Hari Niraula said performance as per the Immigration Act, 2049, Immigration Regulations, 2059 and Immigration Procedure, 2065 was challenging in the changed context.