Himal Press 
ITAHARI: Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) Chairperson Rabi Lamichhane has expressed dissatisfaction over growing political interference in the education sector.
Addressing an election rally in Ithari on Tuesday, Lamichhane said the education sector has fallen victim to excessive politicisation, which he said has compelled students to go abroad for studies. “Instead of forming professional organisations, teachers should prepare plans on how to build smart classrooms. We will take responsibility for politics,” he said.
Lamichhane also urged teachers and civil servants not to remain active in sister organisations affiliated with political parties. He argued that fears of being deprived of rights for staying away from such groups are baseless. According to him, strengthening professionalism and institutional reform is essential to improving the education sector.
On the issue of landless squatters, Lamichhane said the party would adopt a solution-oriented approach rather than resorting to force. “Bulldozers will first be used against the mansions of the corrupt, not the huts of the poor,” he said. He expressed commitment to form a powerful commission to address landlessness and implement expert recommendations.
Also speaking on the occasion, RSP leader Balen Shah stressed the need to prioritise agricultural production and infrastructure development in eastern Nepal. He said efforts would be made to increase the consumption of local produce and resolve irrigation problems.
“Where did you get your vegetables? From across the border?” he asked. “Vegetables produced in places like Tehrathum and Panchthar are not being consumed here in the Tarai. This problem must be addressed.”
He added that although rice produced in three to four eastern Tarai districts has the capacity to meet national demand, poor management has prevented its optimal utilization.
Shah emphasised the need for long-term planning to address recurring flood damage during the monsoon and irrigation shortages during dry seasons. “There is a problem of cultivable land lying unused. This must be resolved,” he said.
Describing the eastern region as a centre of economic potential, Shah said income could be boosted through tourism and agriculture. He called for national-level promotion of religious and cultural sites in the region, including Pathibhara Devi Temple, Mukkumlung, and Khuwalung. “Barahakshetra can be promoted in the international market,” he said. “Promotion of religious tourism will directly benefit the local economy.”
