Pokhara: Amidst a stir of controversy, the Nepali Congress (NC) has raised objections regarding the recent vote of confidence obtained by Chief Minister Khagaraj Adhikari in the Gandaki Province Assembly meeting.

Tensions escalated as CM Adhikari reportedly secured a vote of confidence with 30 out of 59 Province Assembly members, excluding the Speaker. The NC expressed dissatisfaction with the announcement, citing deviations from parliamentary norms and traditions. According to NC representatives, the Speaker's declaration lacked adherence to constitutional practices, insisting that confidence should stem from a majority among all Assembly members.

Outgoing Chief Minister of the Province, Surendra Raj Pandey, labeled the announcement as "unconstitutional" and declared intent to seek legal recourse through the Supreme Court. In a press briefing held at the NC parliamentary party's office in Pokhara, Pandey emphasized the necessity for at least 31 Province Assembly members to support the Chief Minister for a vote of confidence.

Meanwhile, Speaker Krishna Prasad Dhital defended his decision, asserting that CM Adhikari's proposal received majority backing in line with parliamentary principles. Adhikari garnered 30 votes, including support from CPN (UML), CPN (Maoist Centre), and an independent member.

Despite protests from NC Province Assembly members, the Speaker stood by his ruling, prompting calls for impartiality and adherence to constitutional provisions. Nepali Congress lawmakers voted against Adhikari's proposal, further fueling tensions within the Assembly.

With conflicting interpretations of constitutional mandates, the Province Assembly remains embroiled in a battle of principles, as stakeholders urge the Speaker to uphold neutrality and safeguard the integrity of the legislative body.