Kathmandu: A special seven-member parliamentary committee is being formed to investigate alleged tampering and irregularities in the controversial "cooling period" provision included in the Federal Civil Service Bill 2080.

The decision was reached after a meeting on Saturday between Speaker Devraj Ghimire and the chief whips of various political parties. The committee will comprise:

-2 members from the Nepali Congress (NC)

-2 from the CPN-UML

-1 from the Maoist Center

-1 from the National Independent Party (RSP)

-1 from the Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP)

According to CPN-UML Chief Whip Mahesh Bartaula, it has been agreed that the Nepali Congress will lead the committee. The committee has been tasked with submitting its report within 15 days.

The official list of committee members will be announced during the House of Representatives session on Monday, where the decision to form the committee will also be formally approved.

This step follows growing controversy and political outcry over changes made to the "cooling period" clause—seen by many as an attempt to influence the neutrality and integrity of the civil service.