Opposition Lashes Out at Government for Bypassing Parliament via Ordinances; Warns of Nationwide Protests

KATHMANDU – The political climate in Nepal has intensified following the government's decision to bypass regular parliamentary sessions and issue a series of crucial laws via ordinances. Labeling this move a "mockery of the parliamentary system," opposition parties have vowed to launch a dual-front resistance—both in the streets and within the legislative halls.

The ordinances recently recommended by the Council of Ministers cover three sensitive sectors, sparking widespread public debate:

Land Reform and Informal Settlements (Sukumbasi): The government's preparation to deploy bulldozers along the riverbanks of the Kathmandu Valley for settlement management has met fierce resistance, with critics calling it an attack on the urban poor.

Civil Service Bill: The opposition has voiced strong objections to finalizing the Civil Service Act—often called the "backbone" of administration—through an ordinance instead of a parliamentary debate.

New IPO Regulations: Opposition leaders claim that altering rules regarding Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) behind closed doors raises suspicions of policy-level corruption and threatens the investments of the general public.

Public concern has been further amplified by a recent major building collapse in India. This tragedy has triggered a "trending" debate in Nepal regarding urban planning and the enforcement of building codes. Due to rapid, haphazard urbanization and weak land-use laws, there is a growing sense of fear among city dwellers. Digital platforms like Nepali Patro have seen a surge in discussions regarding structural safety and governance.

Opposition leaders accuse the government of avoiding Parliament to hide unpopular or "anti-people" agendas. Their primary demands include:

Immediate Resumption of Parliament: All ordinances must undergo open discussion and legislative scrutiny.

Halt to Demolitions: An immediate end to the destruction of homes belonging to the poor under the guise of settlement management.

Civil Service Integrity: Ensuring that the career progression and rights of civil servants are not manipulated for political gain.

The opposition has declared that if the government does not backtrack on these unilateral decisions, they will mobilize a "war-level" protest to hold the administration accountable.