Kathmandu: CPN (UML) lawmaker Padma Giri has demanded the resignation of Deputy Speaker Indira Rana, citing concerns over the dignity and decorum of the Parliament. Speaking during the special hour of the House of Representatives (HoR) meeting today, Giri stressed that the Deputy Speaker's actions and decisions have compromised the integrity of the Parliament.

"The Deputy Speaker has not upheld the dignity of the Parliament. She has ignored critical issues raised in the Parliament for a long time," Giri stated. He further added that her resignation would be necessary to restore and protect the Parliament’s reputation, emphasizing that his demand was not based on personal prejudice but on the Deputy Speaker's actions, which have tarnished the Parliament's image.

Giri's primary concern was a letter of recommendation Deputy Speaker Rana reportedly wrote to the U.S. Embassy for individuals not associated with the Parliament, allowing them to attend a program in the U.S., an act he claims undermines the institution's integrity.

Additionally, Giri pointed to the ongoing crisis at the Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC), urging the government to focus on improving the national carrier, which has been struggling with loan repayments due to ineffective aircraft operations.

Several other lawmakers raised various issues during the session:

-Suhang Nembang called for consensus and collaboration to propel the country toward prosperity.
-Rajendra Bajgai of Nepali Congress urged the government to prioritize aviation security.
-Pratima Gautam highlighted the difficulties faced by the public due to the poor condition of roads in Kathmandu, calling for immediate repairs.
-Purna Bahadur Gharti from CPN (Maoist Centre) requested a review of a Supreme Court order regarding the construction of structures along riverbanks in the Kathmandu Metropolitan City.
-Binita Kathayat of Rastriya Swatantra Party demanded that the road connecting Surkhet to Jumla along the Karnali Highway be officially renamed as "Karnali Highway" and called for the speeding up of the construction work along the 210-mile route.
-Gharti also expressed concerns that the demand for the Deputy Speaker's resignation might be overshadowing other pressing national issues.