FNCCI urges government to investigate looting, arson during Gen‑Z protests

KATHMANDU: Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) has urged the government to investigate and take action against those responsible for looting, vandalism and arson targeting industry, businesses and private property during the Gen‑Z protests on September 8 and 9. The FNCCI also called on the government to guarantee security for private sector.

FNCCI said it had received complaints from member enterprises that First Information Reports (FIRs) have not been filed against the perpetrators, warning that such inaction will foster impunity and discourage entrepreneurs. The federation added that the incidents have weakened private‑sector morale and harmed economic activity.

“We are receiving information from member entrepreneurs that FIRs are not being registered against the perpetrators of the incidents, and there is an apparent indifference towards taking action. If this situation continues, it will increase impunity and pose a serious challenge to the investment climate. This will have a long‑term impact on job creation, revenue collection, investment promotion and the overall economy,” the FNCCI statement said.

FNCCI has formally requested the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) to include the presidents and representatives of the concerned district chambers in central and district security committees to ensure FNCCI representation and to guarantee the security of private sector. The federation has sought participation of its own and member associations in district‑level security plans, risk assessment and emergency decision‑making.

Speaking at a discussion on Sunday, FNCCI Acting President Anjan Shrestha said peace and security were essential for stability and for the operation of enterprises, and that the absence of such operations would lead to serious economic problems. He said impunity must be ended and entrepreneurs must be assured they will not be attacked in the future, and called for the culprits to be investigated and prosecuted.

FNCCI immediate past president Shekhar Golchha said the private sector expects the government to act proactively to revive economic activity, restore trust in the investment environment and enable businesses to operate with confidence. He added that the government needs to focus on maintaining peace and security, working towards stability and boosting the morale of industrialists and entrepreneurs.

FNCCI vice presidents Hem Raj Dhakal and Jyotsna Shrestha, treasurer Bharat Raj Acharya and chairpersons of FNCCI committees and forums participated in the discussion. The federation stated that continued inaction could have lasting consequences for investment and employment in Nepal.