The Legislature-Parliament has started deliberations on the policies and programmes unveiled by President Bidya Devi Bhandari on Sunday.

The discussion began after House Speaker Onsari Gharti tabled a vote of thanks motion for extending thanks to President Bidhya Devi Bhandari for presenting the government’s policy and programes.

Four lawmakers including main opposition party Nepali Congress (NC)’s Ramesh Lekhak registered an amendment motion to the government’s policies and programmes.

With the commencement of discussion, the lawmakers seeking amendment have been allowed to put forth their views.

Speaking at the House, NC lawmaker Ramesh Lekhak said it was against the constitution to announce that the local body election would be held in December at a time when it’s not possible to hold the election under the existing circumstances. “Border and number of local bodies have been finalised,” he said. “It’s not possible to hold elections due to the transition. What did the government do in the seven months after the promulgation of new constitution?”

Meanwhile, the lawmakers from Madhi parties have boycotted the parliament meeting saying that their demands have not been fulfilled. 

The discussions will continue for three days (till May 12) where various lawmakers will put their views on the policies and programmes, while the Prime Minister is scheduled to respond to queries raised at the parliament on May 13.