Kathmandu, June 30:

Women leaders today demanded formation of energy ministry for developing alternative energy sources.

They said this while addressing a protest against the spiralling prices of consumer goods.

“There should be energy ministry for developing the alternative energy source,” said CA member of Nepali Congress Suprabha Ghimire.

The new constitution should also provide due space to energy related issues, she said.

The government should stress on producing electricity from small and micro-level projects through the mobilisation of local resources, she said, adding that proper market monitoring was a must to regulate energy sector.

President of Inter-Party Women’s Alliance Uma Adhikari said they wanted to draw attention of the government towards the spiralling prices of essential items and lack of proper access of goods to public.

She said IPWA was pressing the government to take strict action against black marketeers.

CA member Sapana Pradhan Malla promised to raise voice in the Constituent Assembly meeting against the skyrocketing market prices.

“Political development is the first priority but we cannot undermine the issue of markets and prices of consumer goods,” she said.

IPWA vice-president Urmila Pandey stressed on the need for introduction of ration cards for the students, single women and elderly people.

The prices of daily consumption goods is same for the rich and the poor, which is a discrimination, she said.

“We are committed to fight against every discrimination facing the commoners,” she added.

Meanwhile, Nepal Progressive Women’s Federation (NPWF) urged the government to withdraw price hike petroleum products.

According to a press release issued today, price rise in petroleum products had directly affected the prices of daily use commodities, causing great problem for the general people. The NPWF has demanded the government to introduce ration card system for low-income people.

“ If the government or the Constitution Assembly fails to address our demand then we will be compelled to take to the streets,” warned NPWF.