Bhandari Warns Against 'Controlled Democracy' at Congress Conclave

Janata Samajbadi Party (JSP) Nepal leader Sharat Singh Bhandari told the Nepali Congress on Sunday that the country will not accept a "controlled democracy" under any pretext, calling on major political parties to forge cross-party consensus amid pressing economic, social, and geopolitical transitions.

Speaking at the opening session of the 15th Nepali Congress General Convention at Khula Manch in Kathmandu, Bhandari warned against any rollback of democratic space. According to coverage by Setopati, Onlinekhabar, and Nagarik News, the veteran leader cautioned that limiting political freedoms cannot become the destiny of the Nepali people, asserting that citizens will firmly reject any curtailment of democratic rights.

Bhandari highlighted that Nepal is navigating a difficult period shaped by concurrent economic vulnerabilities, social friction, and regional geopolitical shifts. As Setopati and Onlinekhabar reported, he stressed that managing these national challenges requires broad national unity and mutual cooperation among the mainstream political forces.

During his address, the JSP Nepal leader solicited backing from the Nepali Congress to amend the national charter. He argued that updating the constitution in response to evolving requirements is necessary to strengthen the federal democratic republican system and ensure proportional inclusion across state mechanisms. He noted that his party expects robust support from the Congress in pursuing structural reforms that guarantee inclusive governance.

Focus on Economic Growth

Alongside constitutional concerns, Bhandari urged political parties to move past persistent infighting and redirect their energy toward national development. According to Ratopati, he acknowledged the historical leadership of the Nepali Congress in leading the movements that brought about the democratic republic, noting that these achievements must be preserved through collaborative politics.

Bhandari stressed that because past political struggles have concluded, the primary national agenda must transition toward economic transformation. Ratopati reported him as stating that the singular priority of all parties should now be guiding the country toward economic prosperity.

Expressing optimism regarding the conclave, Bhandari noted that the leadership and policies that emerge from the Nepali Congress convention will help determine Nepal's forward trajectory. He underscored that safeguarding democratic achievements and accommodating regional and minority aspirations through timely constitutional updates remain vital to building a stable, prosperous nation.