KATHMANDU: Parliamentarians have strongly criticized the government’s proposal to grant lifelong service benefits to former dignitaries, deeming it an unjustifiable strain on state resources amidst the country’s ongoing economic difficulties.

During the parliamentary meeting on Sunday, lawmakers voiced their objections, arguing that increasing benefits for former dignitaries would add unnecessary financial pressure on the state. They urged the government to reconsider the decision.

Unified Socialist lawmaker Prakash Jwala emphasized that arbitrary privileges given to former dignitaries should be discontinued. He further proposed reducing the benefits for current lawmakers, suggesting that sitting dignitaries should also have their privileges scaled back.

During the House of Representatives’ zero hour, Jwala criticized the government for neglecting its responsibilities, highlighting the lack of relief for earthquake victims, as well as those affected by floods and landslides. He also expressed concern about widespread corruption and the deteriorating economic situation.

Nepali Congress leader Ram Krishna Yadav similarly argued that offering lifelong benefits to former dignitaries was not in the best interest of the nation. He pointed out the country’s fragile economic state, rampant corruption, and the growing number of deaths due to inadequate healthcare access. Yadav stressed that, despite criticism of ineffective public services, the government was preparing a draft law that would grant lifetime allowances, housing, vehicles, staff, and assistants to former presidents, vice presidents, prime ministers, speakers, national assembly chairpersons, and former council of ministers.

Maoist Center MP Devendra Poudel also opposed the proposal, stating that offering lifelong privileges to former dignitaries while neglecting the country’s economic recovery and the needs of the poor was inappropriate.

Independent MP Dr. Amaresh Singh joined the opposition, accusing former dignitaries of corruption and involvement in major scandals during their time in office. He argued that it was unacceptable for such individuals to continue receiving benefits while the people suffered under increasing debt even after they left office.

“There are issues with the privileges given to those who looted the country while in power and were involved in scandals like the Ncell and wide-body cases,” Singh said. “It’s unacceptable for them to continue exploiting the people even after retiring. This must stop.”