KATHMANDU:Independent lawmaker Dr. Amresh Kumar Singh stirred controversy in the House of Representatives on Sunday by sarcastically proposing that Nepal should retain only five “fortunate” districts that receive the bulk of the budget, and lease the remaining 72 districts to countries like the U.S., China, and India.

Speaking during discussions on the Appropriation Bill for the fiscal year 2082/83 (2025/26), Singh criticized the distribution of the national budget, alleging that it has been unfairly concentrated in five districts represented by influential politicians.

“If the rest of the districts aren’t getting any budget, why keep them in Nepal?” he remarked. “Kathmandu alone has 131 projects worth Rs 30 million each. By that ratio, Sarlahi should have at least 15 to 20 projects.”

He also questioned the logic behind establishing another medical college in Dadeldhura when Geta Medical College already exists in Sudurpaschim, while regions like Madhesh continue to be ignored.

However, Singh’s remarks drew objections from CPN-UML Chief Whip Mahesh Bartaula, particularly over the controversial comment about leasing out districts. Speaker Devraj Ghimire later directed that Singh’s remarks be expunged from the parliamentary record.

Despite the ruling, MP Singh insisted that not only should minor lawmakers be reprimanded, but members of major parties should also face similar rulings. When Speaker Ghimire asked Singh to leave the rostrum if he did not want to stick to the topic, Singh responded defiantly, saying he would rather remain silent than step down.