NADA Expresses Grave Concern Over Eastern Nepal Unrest, Urges Government to Restore Business Stability

The NADA Automobiles Association of Nepal, a prominent representative body for the automotive sector, has voiced profound concern regarding the escalating unrest and violent incidents recently observed in several districts of Eastern Nepal, including Sunsari. The association emphasizes that such disruptions pose a significant threat to the nation's socio-economic fabric and its overall development trajectory.

In a press statement issued by NADA President Surendra Kumar Upreti, the association underscored Nepal's unique identity as a multi-religious, multi-linguistic, and multi-cultural nation. Upreti highlighted that the country's greatest strength lies in its social unity and harmony, which are indispensable for progress and stability. While acknowledging the constitutional right of citizens to express their demands peacefully, NADA unequivocally stated that any form of violent activity, vandalism, or actions that undermine social harmony are unacceptable and detrimental to the national interest. Such acts not only violate the rule of law but also erode the trust and cooperation essential for a functioning society and a vibrant economy.

The association articulated grave concerns about the adverse economic repercussions stemming from these disturbances. NADA warned that such regrettable incidents not only compromise peace and security but also severely disrupt the daily lives of ordinary citizens, impede industrial and business operations, deter both foreign and domestic investment, and ultimately inflict a negative impact on the entire national economy. The business community, in particular, is experiencing heightened anxiety due to the volatile environment, which threatens operational continuity and future growth prospects. Supply chains are vulnerable to disruption, consumer confidence can plummet, and the overall investment climate becomes uncertain, potentially leading to capital flight and delayed expansion plans. For a developing economy like Nepal, maintaining a predictable and stable environment is paramount for attracting the necessary capital and fostering entrepreneurship. Prolonged instability can also lead to job losses, reduced tax revenues, and a general slowdown in economic activity, impacting the national budget and public services.

In light of these pressing issues, NADA has issued a fervent appeal to all concerned parties to exercise utmost restraint and to seek resolutions through constructive dialogue within the framework of legal and democratic processes. The association firmly believes that peaceful negotiation is the only sustainable path to addressing grievances and restoring normalcy. Furthermore, NADA has called upon the Nepal government and all relevant state bodies to take immediate and decisive action to guarantee peace and security across the affected regions. This includes ensuring the protection of citizens' lives and property, which are fundamental prerequisites for any thriving society and economy. The association specifically urged the authorities to prioritize efforts aimed at swiftly normalizing the disrupted business environment, thereby safeguarding livelihoods and economic activity.

NADA's General Secretary, Milan Babu Malla, further reiterated the association's stance, urging media outlets to widely disseminate this crucial message. The association concluded its statement with a heartfelt appeal to all Nepali citizens to uphold social harmony, national unity, and mutual respect, encouraging everyone to play a positive and constructive role in fostering a peaceful and prosperous Nepal. The stability of the business environment is directly linked to investor confidence, both domestic and international, and any prolonged period of unrest can have lasting negative effects on the NEPSE market and the broader economic outlook. Therefore, NADA's call for immediate government intervention and a return to normalcy resonates deeply within the financial and business communities, highlighting the critical interdependence between social stability and economic prosperity.