KATHMANDU, Nov 4: With the end of the monsoon session of the Federal Parliament on Thursday night, the parliamentary parties and parliamentary committees have fallen silent. Even in the absence of a session, the various committees that are called ‘mini parliaments’ should be active, but the committees are not active. When parliament is not in session, the committees are the platforms to raise issues of public concern and address the irregularities of the government. However, the Parliament Secretariat premises remain deserted, regardless of parliament's session status.

As parliament is not active, it seems that even the employees’ productivity has been hindered. The parliamentary committees can discuss the bills that have reached them, while the committees can call the ministers and secretaries of the government to get information about the work of the government. Dozens of bills are pending in the committees. A black market has flourished in the country. The work of the projects of national pride has been delayed, information about the balance of payment situation will have to be obtained.

Highway accidents are on the rise, and aging vehicles, which are still in daily use, contribute to increasing pollution levels. Even though the parliamentary committees can study these matters, it does not seem that the committees are trying to do any significant work.

Some committees appear to prioritize their self-interests, with committee chairs facing difficulties in achieving a quorum during meetings. With Tihar and Chhath festivals approaching, many MPs are returning to their home districts, but the Speaker has not shown much initiative in reactivating the committees. In order to make the committees effective, the Speaker should engage in discussions with committee chairpersons.

The latest incidents show that only expenses were made on salaries and allowances of MPs as the committees that should have been active on all days except holidays are in a deep slumber. If we look at the salaries of MPs only in the monsoon session, about Rs 133.38 million has been spent.

About Rs 30 million has been spent on allowances alone, Rs 20 million has been spent on fuel. The rent of the parliament building is Rs 11.6 million per month. About Rs 14 million has been spent on MP's personal expenses.

 
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