KATHMANDU: In a meeting with journalists working in the security sector today, marking the start of the new Nepali year 2082, Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak clarified that there were no issues regarding the functioning of the current government.
Addressing concerns about the resignation of the Education Minister and the Governor appointment, Lekhak urged not to worry about any tensions in the power-sharing arrangement.
“There are no issues in the government. One member of the search committee formed for the Governor’s recommendation has resigned. This needs to be addressed and completed in the next cabinet meeting,” he said in response to a journalist’s inquiry.
The Home Minister emphasized that strengthening peace and security, maintaining effective home administration, and ensuring well-resourced security agencies have always been his top priorities.
He also noted that legal and policy reforms are progressing simultaneously under his leadership.
Lekhak highlighted that governance reforms cannot be envisioned without improvements in policy and law.
He provided updates on ongoing legal reforms, including the Nepal Police and Armed Police Force Nepal Act, which has already reached the parliamentary committee for discussion.
He mentioned that his ministry is also working on amendments to the Land Acquisition, Organization Registration, and Social Welfare Acts.
“The Haj and citizenship regulations have been submitted to the cabinet, and the prison regulations will be presented in today’s cabinet meeting. Other important laws will soon be introduced in Parliament,” he stated.
Lekhak also directed the improvement of immigration administration and acknowledged recent improvements in services at Tribhuvan International Airport’s immigration office.
While admitting that occasional lapses might occur in the performance of subordinate agencies, he affirmed that the government will learn from these mistakes and move forward.
In line with the principles of democracy, Lekhak welcomed criticism, urging the media to identify and assist in resolving any shortcomings.
He also mentioned the ongoing investigation into the violent demonstration by monarchist groups in Kathmandu on March 28.
The Home Minister further assured that internal investigations are being conducted by the police regarding the methods used to maintain security during the event. “A comprehensive investigation is underway, and the police will uncover the truth. The investigation will be impartial, independent, and professional,” Lekhak said. He added that relief assistance would be provided to the family of the deceased in the protest.
Nepali Youth Sandeep Neupane Dies in Kashmir Incident
Minister Lekhya confirmed initial reports of the death of Nepali youth Sandeep Neupane in an incident in Kashmir, India. Neupane, an engineering student in Nepal, was on a family visit when he was attacked and killed.
He stated that he had already directed the Nepali Embassy in Delhi to gather further details on the incident.
Ongoing Discussions on Teachers’ Demands
On the matter of ongoing protests by teachers, Lekhak indicated that discussions from various perspectives are ongoing.
He assured that the government is addressing demands that can be immediately fulfilled. “We are committed to passing the Education Bill as soon as possible and resolving the protests through dialogue with teachers,” he added, emphasizing that the government is engaged in discussions with the teachers’ representatives.
