By Ranju Kafle

Kathmandu May 19: Discussions on the policy and programme of the government for the coming fiscal year continued in both the Houses of Federal Parliament on Monday. Lawmakers of both ruling and opposition parties participated in the session and suggested the government to focus on the rescue of stranded Nepali nationals and protection of various border points.
Issues of border dispute, India’s attempt of grabbing Nepal’s land in Limpiyadhura, extension of tests against COVID-19, PPEs, test kits and other equipment were raised in the meeting.
Lawmakers of the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) appreciated the government for its commitment to bringing Nepali territory back whereas the opposition blamed the government for not being able to address the contemporary issues of crisis well with clear priorities.
“The document expressed commitments to national sovereignty, integrity and independence well which is appropriate,” leaders of ruling NCP said. Even the leaders of opposition agreed in maintaining border safety.
However, they disagreed with some points of the government’s policy. “Prevention, control and treatment measures against COVID-19 have not spelt out clearly, the test capacity must be stepped up,” they said.
Former defence minister Bhim Rawal was happy with the government for its clear claim on Limpiyadhura, Lipulek and Kalapani. He said that border dispute needed permanent solution. “Issuing a new map, including Lipuleke, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura in it is the most important task, I welcome the government’s decision,” he said.
However, Rawal was not happy with the government for its plan of accepting American assistance by endorsing the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) from the House. “MCC shall not be accepted without revising its previous conditions; it is against national interest, I heard it is entering inside from the back door,” he said.
NC leader Dr Shashanka Koirala also appreciated the government for the clear stand of getting back its land from India. “Inclusion of border dispute in Limpiyadhura, Lipulek and Kalapani in the policy document is appreciable, and our party supports this,” he said.
Koirala also suggested the government to focus on rescuing the Nepali nationals from India and overseas and extend COVId-19 checks in the country. “Shortage of medical equipment, PPEs, test kits and others should be overcome in time,” he said.
Similarly, RJPN leader Mahendra Rai Yadav expressed concerns about health crisis. “Lapses of crisis management need to be specified and addressed well in the budget,” he said.
President Bidya Devi Bhandari had presented the document in the Parliament on Friday. Parliament Secretariat said the discussion session would continue for one more day (on Tuesday) before Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will respond to the queries raised during the discussion session.
PM Oli is scheduled to address both the Houses of Federal Parliament on Tuesday noon.