Former Minister Anilkumar Sinha Clarifies Role of Previous Government in Facilitating Political Resolution

Former Minister Anilkumar Sinha has stated that the sole purpose of the short-term government formed last year was to achieve a political resolution for the country. He praised the security agencies and the Election Commission for playing a crucial role in helping the nation find a way forward despite challenging circumstances. Recalling his tenure as Minister for Industry, he noted that the policy promoting local products, which he had implemented, was also adopted by the Election Commission. 22 Jestha, Kathmandu.

Sinha explained that the interim government established following the political events on Bhadra 23 and 24 was focused primarily on establishing a democratic system through elections rather than political maneuvering. According to him, the then Prime Minister had issued clear directives to conduct timely, fair, fraud-free, and independent elections. He said, “In many places, the Nepal Police lacked proper accommodation, there were no suitable shelters, insufficient food rations, no cooking utensils, and inadequate uniforms,” yet despite these challenges, they made a firm commitment: “We must provide a resolution for the country and will make maximum efforts from our side.”

Although the Election Commission was not fully constituted, the comprehensive operational plans prepared by its office chiefs instilled public confidence in the electoral process, Sinha said. Political parties also accepted the election as an opportunity to select representatives for the people and reached consensus accordingly. Regarding financial management, then Finance Minister Rameshwar Khanal had pledged to prevent budget shortfalls, enabling the Election Commission to prioritize frugality and the use of local products. Sinha added, “When discussions about austerity arose, I still remember that the Chief Election Commissioner and other commissioners committed to adopting maximum frugality, making purchases at the local level, and implementing a policy of maximum use of domestic products.”