Kathmandu: Chairman of the Shram Sanskriti Party and Member of Parliament Harkaraj Rai has reiterated his demand that Prime Minister Balendra Shah apologize in Parliament for his recent remarks regarding the Nepal-India border, calling the statement contrary to the national interest.

Speaking to journalists after the House of Representatives meeting, Rai argued that the Prime Minister's claim that “Nepal has encroached on India's border” poses serious questions regarding Nepal’s territorial integrity, sovereignty and national security.

He said that if the Prime Minister possesses evidence supporting such a claim, the government should clearly inform the public where and how much territory Nepal has allegedly encroached upon.

“The country's chief executive cannot make such an irresponsible statement,” Rai said. “His remarks have created concerns regarding Nepal’s geographical integrity, sovereignty and security. On an issue as sensitive as national borders, such statements should be based on facts and evidence.”

Rai also claimed that the Prime Minister should immediately correct his remarks and apologize to Parliament. According to him, statements related to national borders carry significant diplomatic and political implications and therefore require careful consideration.

Questions Raised Over Parliamentary Schedule
During his remarks, Rai also expressed surprise over the scheduling of the recent parliamentary session. He linked the timing of the meeting to the reported visit of Rabi Lamichhane, president of the Rastriya Swatantra Party, to India.

Rai said he found it unusual that Parliament was convened on a public holiday and suggested that the circumstances surrounding the session deserved scrutiny. However, he did not provide evidence for his suspicions.

Opposition Stands Firm
The Shram Sanskriti Party chairman made it clear that his party would not participate in discussions on the national budget or other parliamentary business until the Prime Minister appears before the House and addresses the controversy.

According to Rai, issues related to national sovereignty and territorial integrity are of greater importance than any legislative or budgetary agenda. He urged opposition parties to maintain pressure on the government until a formal clarification is provided.

The controversy surrounding the Prime Minister’s border remarks has continued to fuel political tensions in Parliament, with several opposition parties demanding clarification and an apology before normal proceedings resume.