Kathmandu: Nepali Congress General Secretary Bishwa Prakash Sharma has called for a more inclusive and coordinated approach to the proposed land-related bill, emphasizing that all three tiers of government—federal, provincial, and local—must take ownership of the legislation for effective implementation.

Speaking at a meeting of the House of Representatives' Agriculture, Cooperatives and Natural Resources Committee on Monday, Sharma underscored the importance of drafting the bill in the true spirit of federalism. He warned that without proper coordination and shared responsibility, the bill may face serious challenges during implementation.

“While the federal parliament is responsible for formulating the main law, provincial governments hold the authority to create land-related policies. However, if they are not made accountable and included in the legislative process, complications will arise,” he cautioned.

Sharma highlighted that amending the land law is both necessary and timely, but added that equal focus should be placed on how different levels of government can co-own and participate in the law's enforcement. He also referenced past directives issued by the Supreme Court regarding land rights and stressed the need to ensure legal harmony in line with federal principles.

“We are in a federal structure based on cooperation and coordination. If the law fails to reflect that spirit and excludes the provincial level from its ownership, it may lead to future disputes,” Sharma explained.

He concluded by urging lawmakers to keep the essence of federalism in mind while finalizing the bill, ensuring it is strong enough to withstand legal and administrative scrutiny in the years to come.