CPN Maoist Centre Chairperson Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has asked the government to focus on rebuilding the lives of people affected by the earthquake in Jajarkot and Rukum West. Speaking at a public meeting in Khalanga, Jajarkot, he promised to raise the issue seriously at the national level.
Victims Still Waiting for Help After 1.5 Years
Locals and stakeholders said that even after 18 months, many earthquake victims have not received proper support. They urged Prachanda to take the issue to the government and push for real action, not just promises.
Prachanda Says He is Serious About the Issue
In response, Prachanda said he is taking the people’s concerns seriously. He reminded the audience that when he was Prime Minister during the earthquake, he personally visited the affected areas and provided emergency support. He added that although he had allocated budget for reconstruction, the progress has been disappointing.
Locals Highlight Road Projects, But No Homes Yet
During the interaction, locals pointed out that development projects like Bheri Corridor, Mid-Hill Highway, and Lumbini-Rara road have moved ahead, but the rehabilitation of earthquake survivors has not. They stressed that rebuilding homes should be the first priority.
Local Voices Demand Stronger Federal Action
People also raised concerns about the weak performance of the provincial government. They urged Prachanda to push for better implementation of federalism, saying people feel their voices are not being heard due to poor power-sharing and coordination.
Prachanda Promises to Push for Federal Reforms
Prachanda agreed that without proper devolution of power, people are becoming frustrated. He said the federal government must work seriously to make federalism effective and address public concerns.