Strong Objection from Nepal Construction Entrepreneurs Federation Against Police Crackdown
The Nepal Construction Entrepreneurs Federation has expressed strong objections to the continued police crackdowns and detentions of reputed construction entrepreneurs. Federation General Secretary Shivhari Ghimire condemned the clampdowns as illegal, reminding that the constitution guarantees the right to a dignified life. The federation has warned that if the government continues the crackdowns without solid grounds, it will be compelled to take firm action. Kathmandu, 29 Baisakh.
The federation voiced serious concern over the ongoing police actions targeting the nation’s leading construction entrepreneurs. In a statement issued Tuesday, General Secretary Shivhari Ghimire described the police and administrative behavior as condemnable.
Due to the unexpected and steep increases in fuel and construction material costs, and the government’s failure to adjust prices timely, it has become difficult to carry out construction projects. The federation expressed strong dissatisfaction with the police crackdowns imposed on construction entrepreneurs, which it said are causing economic and mental pressure. Instead of providing relief to businesses amid the current complex circumstances, the federation declared that these crackdowns, conducted contrary to the Public Procurement Act, regulations, and agreements, are unlawful.
“The federation acknowledges that anyone proven guilty after investigation must be punished according to prevailing laws. However, we remind everyone that Nepal’s constitution guarantees the right to live with dignity and that no one should be deemed guilty unless proven so,” the statement said. The targeting and intimidation of entrepreneurs in the private sector, including the construction industry, is adversely affecting the economy, employment, revenue, and infrastructure development, the federation said. The statement warned that if the government continues unjustified crackdowns and detentions of construction entrepreneurs without solid evidence, the federation will be forced to take stringent measures.
