KATHMANDU: Members of Nepal’s National Assembly have launched a sharp criticism of the government, accusing it of worsening the suffering of poor citizens while failing to respond to urgent humanitarian and governance concerns.

During Wednesday’s zero hour session, lawmakers said the state appears disconnected from the struggles of ordinary people and is failing in its basic duty to protect vulnerable communities.

Lawmaker Durga Gurung condemned the arrest of Dambar Tamang, who had reportedly been staying at the Kirtipur Holding Center under difficult conditions.

Gurung argued that detaining a citizen who was seeking basic livelihood support violates both constitutional protections and existing legal standards, and demanded Tamang’s immediate release.

Lawmaker Jayanti Devi Rai raised concerns over the government’s silence regarding flood-affected families in Siduwa Khola of Sankhuwasabha, where recent flooding displaced hundreds of residents. She called for urgent relief measures along with structured rehabilitation plans, warning that continued inaction would deepen the humanitarian crisis.

Other lawmakers also expressed frustration over what they described as the government’s refusal to respond to parliamentary questions on pressing national issues.

Lawmaker Nar Bahadur Bista questioned the credibility of official commitments to good governance and transparency, asking why ministers are avoiding accountability in Parliament despite repeated concerns raised by elected representatives.