Nepal PM makes rare Parliament appearance, leaves within 20 minutes

Jul 15, 2026

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah made a rare appearance in the House of Representatives after 43 days but left within 20 minutes, drawing sharp criticism from opposition lawmakers. Parliament records show he entered the chamber at 1:37 PM local time and exited at 1:55 PM. His arrival during an opposition member's speech triggered protests, with lawmakers alleging a breach of parliamentary rules. CPN-UML Chief Whip Ain Bahadur Mahar urged the Speaker to issue a ruling, while lawmaker Yashudha Kumari Baraili expressed disappointment over the Prime Minister's brief presence. Shah has faced growing pressure to clarify his May 31 remarks on the India-Nepal border issue, a matter the opposition says remains unanswered in Parliament.