Mahesh Bartaula, Chief Whip of the ruling CPN-UML, criticizes opposition for disrupting parliament

Mahesh Bartaula, the Chief Whip of the ruling CPN-UML party, has strongly criticized the opposition parties for what he called “improper and non-political behavior” in the federal parliament.

Speaking to reporters outside the parliament building in New Baneshwor on Wednesday, Bartaula said he was worried about the opposition's ongoing protest. The opposition has been blocking the parliament demanding that Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak resign in the wake of a visit visa scandal to make way for a free and fair probe. 

Bartaula said it was wrong on the part of the opposition to prevent Home Minister Lekhak from speaking in the parliament, especially since there are accusations against him.

“He should be given a chance to furnish clarifications in the House,” he said.

Bartaula called the opposition’s actions “unfortunate” and accused them of barring the government from putting forth its views in he parliament, which he said goes against democratic principles.

Bartaula also criticized the fact that ruling party members are not being allowed to speak about important public issues.