The CPN-UML has demanded that Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal answer the House of Representatives with regard to the “misbehaviour” meted out to its chair KP Sharma Oli and Vice-chair Subas Nembang by protesters in the eastern region.

Speaking at a House meeting on Friday, UML Vice-chair Bishnu Paudel demanded that the prime minister also answer the House on the state of law and order in the country.

“An attack was attempted in Jhapa. They were targeted yesterday while returning from Pashupatinagar, Ilam, by blocking the road. Warnings have been issued in Panchthar and Taplejung. The government, however, remained a mute spectator,” said Paudel. “The prime minister should answer the House on the state of law and order. Strict action should be taken against those who are involved in such acts.”

People protesting against the naming of Koshi Province waved black flags at Oli in Ilam Bazaar on Thursday. Various groups in the region have been agitating demanding that the province be renamed, reflecting the region’s ethnic identity.

Paudel accused the government of failing to ensure peace and security. At the beginning of the House meeting, UML leaders stood from their seats to denounce the ‘attempted assault’ on their party leaders, including Oli.

The protesters staged demonstrations at Chowk Bazaar while the former prime minister and other UML leaders were on their way to attend a party function. A group of UML leaders, including the party’s standing committee member Rajan Bhattarai met with Home Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha on Thursday and demanded that the government take action against those who tried to disrupt UML’s functions and misbehave with the party chief.