The government is preparing to introduce a legal system for anticipatory bail in business-related offenses, according to Minister for Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Ajay Kumar Chaurasia.

Speaking at the inaugural session of the 49th General Assembly of the Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Minister Chaurasia stated that discussions are underway to reform the legal system to provide anticipatory bail in cases related to industry and trade.

“The government is committed to business-friendly policies and regulations. We have initiated discussions on anticipatory bail to address concerns raised by the private sector,” he said. He added that private sector concerns could also be incorporated into the upcoming fiscal year’s budget and urged business leaders to engage in the process proactively.

The move comes as business leaders have repeatedly criticized the government for detaining individuals over minor economic offenses before granting them a hearing.

Business Leaders Demand Policy Reforms

During the event, Subodh Kumar Gupta, chair of the Trade Committee at the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), expressed frustration over the government’s approach, stating that the private sector’s confidence was waning due to the practice of detaining businessmen before hearing their cases.

Constituent Assembly member Om Prakash Sharma called for a streamlined border security process, arguing that security personnel should check goods at a single point to prevent repeated harassment. He also criticized the lack of development in the Bara-Parsa Industrial Corridor despite the presence of three federal ministers from Parsa district and two from Madhesh Province.

FNCCI Vice President Hemraj Dhakal urged political parties to adopt a unified stance on economic policies and called for tax reforms to create a more investment-friendly environment. Similarly, Ashok Kumar Temani, president of Madhes Province chapter of FNCCI, emphasized that Birgunj should be included in the upcoming budget, given its industrial significance. He also suggested revising Nepal’s transit treaty with India to facilitate Nepali transport vehicles’ access to Indian territories.

Birgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Anil Agrawal accused the government of ignoring the private sector’s legitimate demands and failing to implement trade-friendly policies.

Government and Private Sector Urged to Collaborate

Chief District Officer of Parsa, Ganesh Aryal, stressed the need for cooperation between the government and the private sector to ensure ethical business practices. He denied allegations that state agencies were discouraging private enterprises.

Om Prakash Khanal, president of the Parsa chapter of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, pointed out that the issues raised by entrepreneurs in Birgunj have remained unaddressed for decades. “The government must respond to legitimate demands. If certain demands are unjust, it should clearly state so,” he said, adding that both the government and the private sector need to reassess their approaches.

Entrepreneurs and Journalists Honored

At the event, the association honored the top exporters. Dabur Nepal, Jagdamba Steel, and Hulas Steel were recognized for their highest exports to India, while Triveni Spinning, Shivashakti Dal Mill, and Mariam Leather were honored for their export trade to third countries. Additionally, Himal Lamsal, Birgunj Chief of Rastriya Samachar Samiti, received an award for his contributions to the business sector through journalism.