KATHMANDU:  Nepali Congress President and former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba has criticized the suspension of IPOs for hydropower projects, calling the move inappropriate.

He expressed hope that the Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON) would soon resume approvals.

Speaking at the 23rd Annual General Meeting of IPPAN in Kathmandu, Deuba urged the government to ensure a secure and hassle-free investment environment for both domestic and foreign investors.

“Investors should be supported, not troubled,” he said, stressing that the government holds the responsibility for electricity consumption and trade—with active participation from the private sector.

Deuba also called for greater focus on green energy, describing energy as a natural gift to Nepal.

He noted that the country’s economic and social progress has stemmed from liberalization and privatization, and stressed the need to correct past implementation gaps.

He praised the growing role of the private sector and highlighted that Nepal is now free from load-shedding.