Pokhara, 6 June: Former Chief Minister of Gandaki Province and CPN-UML leader Khagaraj Adhikari has firmly stated that the authority to regulate ride-sharing services lies with the provincial government and cannot be challenged by any other level of government. Speaking during the deliberations on the province’s policy and programme that began Friday, Adhikari clarified that the introduction of ride-sharing regulations is part of a broader effort to boost internal revenue.
Highlighting the practical existence of ride-sharing services, Adhikari emphasized that the provincial government has the constitutional right to manage and generate income from such activities. He made it clear that the province has no intention of interfering in individuals’ private earnings but seeks to collect revenue legally. He criticized the federal government’s reluctance to enact relevant laws while simultaneously discouraging provincial efforts, stating that this has hindered revenue collection from sources such as ride-sharing and local taxation headings like “Dahattar Bahattar”.
Adhikari informed the assembly that all lawmakers have endorsed the upcoming fiscal year’s policy to formalize ride-sharing operations. He also mentioned that the policy includes plans to bring sectors like homemade liquor and cannabis under the tax system. Further, he expressed confidence in purchasing land for industrial zone development and called for clear budgetary reflection of the policy priorities.
He characterized the document as containing deeply considered ideas and goals, asserting that the government believes in action over rhetoric. Adhikari positioned the policy as a strategic step to restore public faith amid political instability, address questions about the relevance of the provincial structure, enhance capital spending, and ensure effective governance.
Defending the performance of the provincial government, Adhikari noted that 930 kilometers of paved roads had been built since its formation. He dismissed criticisms questioning the utility of provinces, pointing to the physical development and the need for such governance structures.
He reiterated that federalism is a necessity for Nepal, and the unity of 60 provincial lawmakers behind the policy is a testament to its legitimacy. Although the opposition and ruling parties may sit on different sides of the chamber, he maintained that the policy and programme are shared responsibilities and urged all to support it for the greater good of the province.
