Kathmandu: The main opposition party, CPN-UML, has reiterated its stand to continue the obstruction of the ‘House’ until the demands are met. UML held a press conference in the capital on Sunday and reiterated its position that the obstruction of parliament will continue until a high-level inquiry committee is formed on the gold scandal.
While reading the press release at the press conference, UML leader Rajendra Gautam said that UML will not back down until a high-level inquiry committee is formed. Gautam said that the impasse has arisen in the Parliament because the government has not formed a high-level inquiry committee.
UML President Oli answered the questions asked by the journalists. President Oli said that Home Minister Narayankaji Shrestha should announce his resignation from the rostrum of the Parliament. President Oli also accused Home Minister Shrestha of failing to control gold smuggling. A few days ago, Home Minister Shrestha gave an answer in the House about the gold smuggling case. Oli gave the answer to that.
Oli claimed that 100 kg gold has been smuggled to Nepal on daily basis. Addressing the press conference at the party’s central office in Chyasal, Oli emphasized that approximately 100 kg of gold is entering Nepal through various customs channels in clear violation of the law.
He alleged that virtually every category of goods passing through customs is being exploited for gold smuggling, whether concealed within brakes, cigarettes, or vehicles. ‘The presence of gold has been detected in unexpected places like vehicle brakes, cigarette packs, and even machinery components,’ remarked the UML chair.
Oli further highlighted the issue of inadequate oversight at several customs checkpoints, leading to reduced revenue generation. He criticized the government’s handling of the situation and pointed out the lack of proper inspections at many customs points, ultimately contributing to a decline in revenue collection. ‘The root cause of the revenue shortfall is the lack of robust customs enforcement, resulting in reduced commercial activity and revenue generation,’ Oli argued.
Oli disclosed that his party has formally requested the establishment of a committee to thoroughly investigate potential government involvement in these smuggling activities. However, Oli expressed skepticism regarding the government’s willingness to initiate such an inquiry, suggesting a certain level of apprehension.’If there is no government involvement, an unbiased investigation would undoubtedly confirm it. The reluctance to initiate such an inquiry raises questions about the government’s intentions,’ Oli asserted.
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