Finance Minister Dr. Ram Saran Mahat has warned that the government will no more tolerate bandhs (shutdown strikes).

Finance Minister Dr. Ram Saran Mahat (File photo)

Finance Minister Dr. Ram Saran Mahat (File photo)
Speaking at a programme in the capital Tuesday, minister Mahat said prolonged closure of businesses and public services have seriously dented the country’s economy. “The government has made up its mind to act tough on bandhs as they have dealt a serious blow to national economy. Those trying to force bandhs will face action,” he said.

Nepal could achieve 5 percent economic growth if there were no bandhs, he said and added that series of recent bandhs had led many local industries to closure. “Moreover, there is a risk that the country will lose foreign investment,” he further said.

The country has seen series of general strikes over the past several weeks, especially in Terai region, that threw the supply system and transport service out of gear while many industries were closed down for weeks. Education institutions and government services were also badly affected due to the bandhs.

The Madhesi Janadhikar Forum, one of the protesting Madhesi groups, called of its indefinite general strike in Terai region on Monday but its strike in customs points and lockout of government continued today as well.