Kathmandu, September 18

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli today said the government would protect democracy in the same way a tigress protected her cubs.

Stating that some elements were making efforts to jeopardise the hard-earned federal democratic set-up, Oli said the government would not remain silent and it would ensure that people’s sacrifices did not go in vain.

“The tigress initially remains silent. But when she sees her cubs at risk, she gets into action,” said Oli, addressing the groundbreaking ceremony for the proposed Parliament building in Singha Durbar, Kathmandu.

“The government will act like a tigress if these elements continued to act against the system.”

Oli also said the government would protect the democratic system through democratic process. He said the government would foil such bids through rapid development. “However, we will also adopt restrictive measures if the need arises,” he said, referring to outlawing the Netra Bikram Chand-led outfit.

Stating that some people were opposing the government’s move outlawing the Chand-led group, he asked, “What should we have done if we did not outlaw activities such as violence, intimidation and extortion drive?”

Oli reiterated the government’s zero tolerance against corruption, and warned all to be aware of their activities, responsibilities and rights.

He also expressed displeasure over delayed development works, and said the trend of cost overruns should be discouraged. He also said quality should not be compromised in development works.