KATHMANDU, Feb 21: Main opposition Nepali Congress (NC) obstructed the meeting of the parliament demanding independent probe into the alleged bribery case involving Communication and Information Technology Minister Gokul Baskota.
The opposition also questioned whether Prime Minister KP Oli is also involved in the case. “The decision on procuring security press was taken by the cabinet. So, taking action against the minister alone will not be enough,” said NC Whip Pushpa Bhusal speaking in the lower house on Thursday. “The prime minister should take moral responsibility for the case.”
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Recalling the prime minster’s repeated commitment to zero tolerance for corruption, the NC also asked why the prime minister praised Baskota time and again. “Was he praised for his ability to commit corruption?,” Bhusal said.
NC has also demanded legal action against Minister Baskota and other individuals linked to the scandal. “We have doubts whether the prime minister will give amnesty to the minister by just asking him to quit. He should be investigated even if he resigns,” Bhusal added.
Demanding that the prime minister himself should answer their queries, the NC said it will not lift the obstruction until the government assures action against Baskota.
Former Prime Minister and leader of the Samajbadi Party Baburam Bhattarai also demanded investigation against Baskota and punishment for him if found guilty.
Bhattarai also asked the main opposition to seek solution to the problem through talks instead of obstructing the parliament.
