Sudurpaschim Province Faces Budget Crisis Amidst Political Stalemate
Summary
Sudurpaschim Province has entered a budget impasse after its Rs 37.7 billion budget failed to pass amid a rift between Nepali Congress and CPN (UML). Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah is facing pressure to resign or secure a vote of confidence as the province struggles to fund salaries and new spending.
Key Points
- Sudurpaschim Province’s Rs 37.7 billion budget for fiscal year 2083/84 failed to pass, leaving the province in a budget nullity.
- The ruling alliance between Nepali Congress and CPN (UML) collapsed after Chief Minister Kamal Bahadur Shah dismissed UML ministers and UML withdrew support.
- Opposition leaders say Shah should resign, while the provincial government says it may seek an ordinance to cover employee salaries.
- The deadlock has halted new provincial expenditure and raised concerns about paying employees and managing emergencies.
