Agreement with usury victims will be fully enforced: DPM Lamichhane

Kathmandu- Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane has vowed full implementation of the agreement government made with usury victims. A four-point agreement was reached between the two sides. One among the agreement points is the formation of a probe commission.

Reaching the talks venue, DPM Lamichhane said government was aware about the plights and rights of usury victims. Although the situation turned otherwise, government was together with the victims for their rights, he reminded. He however said agreement was a beginning, so struggle for rights could not stop here. The DPM also apologized before the victims of loan-shark, saying the long struggle took toll on them.

According to him, the probe commission would furnish suggestion to the government, which would be a base for further action. Moreover, the DPM shared that Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal was informed about the agreement. “Now the government shoulders the responsibility to enforce the agreement,” he said. Lamichhane, however, sought some days with the victims of extortionate money lending for enforcement of the pact.

He also urged them to continue close watch. As per agreement, a request will also be made to the Ministry of Finance to make necessary arrangements in the upcoming budget for financial aid, relief and compensation to the underprivileged class so that they do not fall victims to usury.