Protests in Palpa and Gulmi against the constitution amendment bill which proposes splitting Province 5 continued for an eighth straight day on Wednesday.  

Schools, businesses, transportation service and  industries have remained shut due to the protests.

In Palpa, the supporters of various political parties shut down government offices to press their demand to keep Province 5 intact. 

They assembled outside the government offices from the morning to bar access to the employees as well as service seekers. 

The protesters also chanted anti-government slogans and burnt tyres on the streets.

They warned of intensifying the protests if their demand is not addressed at the earliest. 

In Gulmi, protesters organised a whistle rally, calling on the government to roll back the decision to split Province 5. On Tuesday, they had organised a backward rally to protest the amendment proposal of splitting the hill districts in Lumbini and Rapti zones from Province 5.

Meanwhile, the indefinite banda enforced in Rupandehi and Arghakhanchi districts was called off, considering the hardships faced by the people.

The political parties opposing the Province 5 split plan, including the CPN-UML, have decided to lift the banda until December 11.

NC lawmaker says will quit party if bill is passed

Kathmandu: Nepali Congress leader Chandra Bhandari has threatened to quit the party if the amendment proposal registered by the ruling coalition is passed by Parliament.

Bhandari, the NC lawmaker for Gulmi, said on Wednesday that he would continue with the protests against the amendment bill. “The proposal with an intention to separate the Hills, mountains and plains will never be acceptable. Before taking a decision, the party needs to consider public sentiments,” he said, adding that he is ready for any consequences for going against the amendment bill. 

“The party has not yet issued a whip against taking part in protests. But I am ready to face consequences if going for the sentiments of the people results in punishment.” (PR)