KATHMANDU, August 29: The CPN-UML has drawn the attention of parliament, saying a sister organization and individuals close to the ruling party carried out lockout and vandalism at Tribhuvan University (TU) and also attempted an attack on the university’s office-bearers.
At the outset of the meeting of the House of Representatives today, the UML lawmakers raised their hands and Pradeep Gyawali sought time from Speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota to put his view.
On the occasion, lawmaker Gyawali demanded action against the “culprits” involved in such activities, terming these activities taking place at the hallowed and academic place of higher learning as despicable.
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He alleged that the police were protecting those involved in physical attacks on university teachers and the Office of the Attorney General has withdrawn cases against those people. Lawmaker Gyawali added that higher education within the country was deteriorating due to such activities and expressed concern over capital flight from the country in the name of higher education.
Gyawali, a former minister, asked what would be the condition of the university if it is under lockout for 300 days in three years. He expressed worry over such activities dealing a big blow to the academic progress at the institution of higher education where the students and academic freedom should be protected.
Speaker's ruling
Speaker Sapkota directed the government to address the problem seen at the university after all lawmakers from the main opposition party stood up from their seats and after lawmaker Gyawali declared that the House would not be allowed to carry on its business until the minister concerned responded to these kinds of activities at the university.
After the Speaker's ruling to the government, the House resumed its business.
(RSS)
