KATHMANDU, Oct 19: Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) has urged the government to address the Tarai unrest, stating that it might precipitate economic crisis.
In a meeting with newly appointed Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Monday, the umbrella organization of Nepali private sector drew the attention of the government toward the need to address Tarai unrest immediately.
The FNCCI delegation led by President Pashupati Murarka also warned PM Oli that the Tarai unrest could lead the country to serious economic consequences.
Chandra Dhakal elected Senior Vice President of FNCCI
Former FNCCI President Chandi Raj Dhakal, Senior Vice President Bhawani Rana and Vice Presidents Dinesh Shrestha and Shekhar Golchha, among other executive members, were in the delegation.
In the meeting, Murarka said the economy has already suffered loss of approximately Rs 1 trillion due to the banda imposed by the agitating parties and undeclared blockade by India. Many industries in the southern plains have shut operations, while operation of trading and other businesses have come to a grinding halt. Businesses in other parts of the country are bearing the brunt of the Tarai unrest, according to FNCCI officials.
“Private sector properties have come under attack, human rights has been breached and the public life is becoming difficult. We have urged the Prime Minister to take initiative toward resolving the ongoing crisis,” FNCCI said in a statement. “If the industries and businesses remain closed for long, the economy will meet a serious mishap.”
Murarka lamented the indifference of the government and agitating parties toward the requests of the private sector to resolve the problems through dialogue and negotiation.
“If the situation does not improve immediately, many industries and business firms will shut down forever,” the statement quoted Murarka as telling the Prime Minister.
Stating that the country was passing through the most difficult situation, the delegation urged the Prime Minister to become serious to save the economy from collapse, pay attention toward development of hydropower projects, and open alternative trading points and ensuring security to businesses.
Responding to the private sector, Prime Minister Oli said he was serious toward the worsening economic condition of the country. He also assured the private sector representatives that the government would provide relief to them in this adverse situation. “The Prime Minister told us that his government’s first priority will be to create conducive environment for the business sector,” the statement added.
