KATHMANDU, April 28: The CPN-UML has demanded the government promptly rescind its decision to endorse the guideline to provide cash to the disqualified ex-Maoist combatants.

In a meeting of the House of Representatives (HoR) today, UML Chief Whip Padam Giri accused the government of preparing to distribute ‘over Rs one billion’ to the disqualified ex-Maoist combatants in the name of concluding the peace process at a time when the nation's economy is going through a difficult time.

“Arbitrary distributions from the state coffers should not take place when the payment for completed projects is awaited, funds are insufficient for the payment of pension to retired teachers and civil service employees, the payment of social security schemes and the clearance of the state's debt remain,” he said.

The budget for the local level has been reduced and the people are facing hard times to meet their daily requirement and it is unfortunate to decide to dole out cash from the state coffers to over 4,800 disqualified fighters against this backdrop, according to him.

Questioning the transparency of the budget allocated in the name of ex-Maoist combatants in the past, he warned the party would launch a protest if the decision was not revoked.

He also demanded an action against the group involved in the alleged mistreatment of UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli at a public event in Jhapa a few days ago.

 
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