KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress President Gagan Kumar Thapa has objected to the government’s actions against the private sector, saying such “crackdowns” could cost the country heavily if not stopped immediately.

Addressing a Nepali Congress provincial gathering held in Pokhara on Thursday, he warned that Nepal would have to “pay a big price” if the state continued to act against businesses in a careless manner.

“Those who do wrong under the law must be punished, and the Nepali Congress will not oppose action even if it involves its own party members. But if the state continues to deal with the private sector based on whims and impulses, the country will have to bear a heavy cost,” he said.

Thapa stressed that instead of arbitrarily arresting or targeting individuals at will, the government should act with “wisdom, compassion, and legality.”

He also said it is the responsibility of the Nepali Congress to alert and caution the government when necessary.

While noting that the party is in opposition at the federal level, he said it also shares power in provincial governments and must therefore act responsibly.

“We are in leadership in some places and in support in others. We should be able to promote the work of the government throughout the year. Because of government actions, not a single cadre’s dignity should be lowered,” he said.

The Nepali Congress Central Policy and Training Department has been organizing provincial-level gatherings across the country.