Proceedings of the 82nd National Assembly session

28th June 2004:Opening

• Inauguration of the 82nd session of the National Assembly
• Royal Advisory Councilors Election

29th June - Prime Minister presents Government Performance Report

30th June - Finance Minister presents National Budget Report

July 1st - 6th July - Issues related to Development Activities

1st July - Discussions on road communication

2nd July - Discussions on road communication continue

5th July - Discussions on telecommunication facilities and rural electrification

6th July - Discussions on construction of illegal structures

July 7th - 9th - Border Talks; Attack on Bhutanese Joint Verification Team (JVT); People involved in assting ULFA, NDFB and KLO militants

7th July - Bhutan-China Border talks

7th July - Deliberations on the attack on Bhutanese JVT in eastern Nepal

8th July - Discussions continue on the attack on Bhutanese JVT

9th July - Punishment for people who assisted ULFA, NDFB and KLO militants

9th July - Members briefed on Bhutan’s boundary map of 1989

9th July - Revised Personal Income Tax

12th July - Tax on Foreign allowance and representational grants waived off

12th July - Population & Housing Census to be conducted in 2005

12th July - State of the Environment Report

13th July - Discussions on the State of the Environment report

13th July - Expatriates workers in the country

14th July - Registration of religious artefacts of public and private Choekhangs

14th July - Discussions on the 2004 manual for DYT and GYT Chathirms

July 14th -17th Miscellaneous Issues

14th July - Discussions on National Security

15th July - Discussions on the national language, Dzongkha

16th July - Amendment to the Marriage Act

19th July - Shifting dzongkhag administration office from Sarpang to Gelephu

19th July - Miscellaneous issues, including unemployment and rural credit

20th July - Discussion on bank transaction forms and timber for construction

22nd July - Discussion on community leaders' allowances and misuse of power

23rd July - Revision in land compensation and acquisition of land

26th July - Assembly discuss promotion of cash crop market

26th July - Purchase of Excess land and construction of house on wetland

28th July - Establishment of Committee to maintain religious places and artefacts

28th July - Discussion on establishment of new gewogs

28th July - Amendment to Moveable and Immoveable Property Act & additional clause to the Biodiversity Act

July 29th - August 12th Enactment of Acts and Ratification of Conventions

29th July - Discussions on the Tenancy Act 2004

30th July - National Assembly Committees Act 2004 discussed

2nd August - National Assembly pass Tenancy Act and the Road Act

3rd August - Two-thirds majority to enact the Speaker’s Act of 2004

4th August - Discussions continue on the Speaker's Act 2004

5th August - Speaker's Act 2004 under extensive discussion

6th August - Discussions on the election procedure for Deputy Speaker

9th August - Bhutan Penal Code 2004 being discussed

10th August - Discussions continue on Draft Bhutan Penal Code 2004

11th August - Bhutan Penal Code 2004 passed

12th August - Ratification of International Conventions and Protocol

13th August - People's Representative express gratitude

16th August - Election of Deputy Speaker, members of Legislative & Pubic Accounts Committees

17th August - 82nd National Assembly session concludes

 

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Bhutan's National Assembly in session

The 82nd session of the National Assembly, the nation’s highest legislative body, commenced on Monday, 28th June, amidst traditional ceremonies.His Majesty the King was escorted to the National Assembly hall in traditional Chipdrel procession before the national Assembly was inaugurated.

In his opening address, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Dasho Ugyen Dorji said Bhutan has achieved unprecedented socio-economic progress as well as spititual and cultural development ever since the Kingdom embarked on the path of planned socio-economic development in 1961.

He said, while the kingdom has achieved phenomenal socio-economic development, enjoyed peace and prosperity, and established stable international relations under the far-sighted leadership of His Kajesty the King, Bhutan faced a serious threat from the illegal presence of insurgents from the Indian states of Assam and West Bengal.

He said, in the past sessions the National Assembly had repeatedly discussed the issue to find a peaceful solution to the problem.

After all peaceful options were exhausted the royal government had to resort to military action. In December 2003, the Bhutanese armed forces led by His Majesty the King launched the operation to flush out the militants.

Dasho Ugyen Dorji said the success of the military operation has ensured the continued sovereignty and security of the nation.

On behalf of the National Assembly, the Speaker expressed profound gratitude to His Majesty the King and the armed forces for the success of the operation.

Dasho Ugyen Dorji also expressed gratitude to the 11 valiant soldiers, who sacrificed their lives to protect the peace and prosperity of the country.

On the issue of finding a peaceful solution to the problem of people in the camps in Nepal, Dasho Ugyen Dorji expressed disappointment that the verification process had been disrupted, after the people in the camps physically assaulted and verbally abused officials of the Bhutanese Joint Verification Team (JVT).

The Speaker said it is imperative that the Assembly deliberate on this issue to find a lasting solution.

Speaking before the Royal Advisory Councilors (RAC) election, the Speaker reminded the candidates that as per the Kasho (Royal Decree) issued by His Majesty the King earlier this year, once the Constitution of the Kingdom has been endorsed, the institution of the Royal Advisory Councilor may be altered to establish the Upper House of the Assembly.

In such a case, the existing Royal Advisory Council Chathrim would be repealed and the newly elected councilors will have to relinquish their post.

Dasho Ugyen Dorji said that during this session, the National Assembly will be endorsing 5 Bills and some International Conventions already reviewed by the Legislative Committee.

The Speaker expressed hope deliberations will be sincere and substantive on all issues.

The opening of the National Assembly including the election of the six Royal Advisory Councilors was broadcast live on BBS radio.

Hundreds of people who could not be accommodated in the National Assembly hall watched the proceedings on close circuit television at the Banquet hall.

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Royal Advisory Councilors elected

The National Assembly has elected the six Royal Advisory Councilors.

They are Sangay Wangdi from Mongar, Jangchub Dorji from Tashigang, Zeko Dorji from Gasa, Sigay Dorji from Wangdiphodrang, DB Sinchuri from Tsirang, and Yeshey Dorji from Sarpang.

During the elections, the 20 dzongkhags were divided into three regions – Western, Eastern and Southern.

Among the 150 members of the National Assembly, 146 members cast their votes. 4 of the members (Chimis from 4 dzongkhags) did not have the right to vote, since they were standing for the election.

The Mongar candidate Sangay Wangdi won 44 votes. He is presently working as the joint secretary in the Royal Advisory Council.

The candidate of Tashigang Dzongkhag, Jangchub Dorji is the incumbent Chimi of Samkhar gewog. He got 37 votes.

From the western dzongkhags, the Gasa dzongkhag candidate Zeko Dorji won 29 votes. He has been working as the regional manager of the Food Corporation of Bhutan (FCB) in Thimphu.

The candidate from Wangduephodrang Dzongkhag, Sigay Dorji, got 27 votes. Sigay Dorji is a former Chimi and is a member of the Constitution Drafting Committee.

The two new Royal Advisory Councilor elects from the Southern region are DB Sinchuri of Tsirang, who got 48 votes and Yeshey Dorji from Sarpang who secured 30 votes.

DB Sinchuri is employed with the Ministry of Education, while Yeshey Dorji is a businessman based in Sarpang.

20 candidates, one from each dzongkhag contested the Royal Advisory Councilors election on Monday, 28th June.

The incumbent Royal Advisory Councilors will be completing their three-year term in October.

Region: Eastern
Candidate	Dzongkhag	No. of votes secured
Jurmi Wangdi	Lhuntse	15
Sangay Wangdi	Mongar	44
Dorji Wangdi	Zhemgang	13
Phurba Tenzin	Pema Gatshel	12
Jangcgub Dorji	Trashigang	37
Sonam Dorji	Trashi Yangtse	17
Ugyen Dorji	Bumthang	8
Region: Western
Candidate	Dzongkhag	No. of votes secured
Bap Kinga	Thimphu	16
Tenzin	Trongsa	8
Thujay	Punakha	24
Dresang Dorji	Haa	25
Zeko Dorji	Gasa	29
Sherab Wangchuk	Paro	17
Sigay Dorji	Wangduephodrang	27
Region: Southern
Candidate	Dzongkhag	No. of votes secured
Sangay Khandu	Samtse	12
Nima Gyeltshen	Chukha	7
Tendel Zangpo	Samdrup Jongkhar	20
D.B. Sinchuri	Tsirang	48
Yeshey Dorji	Sarpang	30
Lhawang Dorji	Dagana	29

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Prime Minister presents Government Performance Report

On the second day of the National Assembly on Tuesday, 29th June, the Prime Minister Lyonpo Jigme Thinley presented the report on the performance of the government in the past year.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley described the year as an exceptionally eventful period. The passing away of the Royal Grandmother Her Late Majesty Ashi Phuntsho Choden Wangchuck and the operation to remove armed militants from Bhutanese soil were pointed out as two of the most important events last year.

The Prime Minister informed the house that the economy continues to perform well and Bhutan’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 6.5 %.

In the health sector, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said new diseases are emerging. He pointed out HIV/Aids epidemic as a grave threat. He said despite concerted efforts, containing malaria and tuberculosis remains an insurmountable task.

He said, much has been achieved in Education. Today there are over 139,000 children in schools and institutions. Efforts have also been made to integrate special educational needs for disabled children.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said tertiary education reached new heights with the establishment of the Royal University of Bhutan last year.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley informed the House that in the past year, Bhutan earned around Nu. 269 million from export of fruits, and vegetables.

Out of the 587 kilometers of farm road planned in the current plan over 90 kilometers has been built.

A survey has been carried out to double lane the Babesa-Phuentsholing Highway with funds amounting to over Nu. 2,300 million from the Government of India.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley informed the house that in April this year, Bhutan, along with 22 other countries signed an agreement for the establishment of an Asian Highway Network.

He said that the compilation of new sathram in 15 dzongkhags and registered Kidu land grant schemes in 5 dzongkhags have been completed.

Works to resettle 458 gungs as part of the national policy to grant land to the landless has also been completed.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley informed the gathering that the country has lost 6,236 acres of agriculture land to urbanization and development and pointed out rural-urban migration as another serious threat, with 70% of urban dwellers comprising of migrants.

In the past year, a total of 2,623 households have been electrified, as a spillover of the rural electrification program of the 8th five-year plan.

The Prime Minister also informed the House that the Tala Hydroelectricity Project is due to be commissioned by the end of 2005-2006.

The Basochu Hydro Power project is also scheduled for completion by March 2005.
Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said, with about 45,000 rural households yet to receive electricity, Bhutan will have to mobilize around Nu. 4.5 billion to fulfill the vision of “Electricity for all” by 2020.

Bhutan’s total export in 2003 amounted to Nu. 5,347 million, while total imports stood at over Nu. 10,000 million.

To develop economic relations with South East Asian countries, Bhutan joined the BIMST-EC this year. Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said that this will diversify Bhutan’s export markets and expand economic relations beyond the SAARC region.

The Prime Minister said once the Rural Telecommunications Project is completed all the gewogs in the country will have access to telecommunications.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said that feasibility studies for domestic airports in Yonphula, Phuntsholing and Bumthang and Helipads in Thimphu, Tashigang, Bumthang and Paro have been carried out.

On employment, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said that some 50,000 youth will be entering the job market in the 9th plan alone.

On Environment Conservation Lyonpo Jigme Thinley highlighted the need to raise standards of conservation practices.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said that national identity is of utmost importance and stressed on preservation and promotion the diversity of rich cultural heritage.

He said Bhutanese Art and architecture has reached unprecedented levels of development and refinement. He said restoration and reconstruction of Punakha and Trongsa Dzong, and Taktshang monastery are evidence of the skills of present day artisans.

The Prime Minister said that to maintain and promote transparency, efficiency and accountability, the government bifurcated some of the ministries.

He said the government has seen two drafts of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan and measures to strengthen the DYT’s and GYT’s continue.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley commended the Royal Audit Authority (RAA) for its efforts towards curbing mismanagement and misuse of public property and resources.

On Foreign Relations, the Prime Minister said that Bhutan continues to develop and maintain friendly relations with all countries in the region and beyond.

He said the country continues to nurture traditional ties of friendship and cooperation with India. The establishment of Local Chapters of the Bhutan India Friendship Association and the India-Bhutan Friendship Association are the examples.

The Bhutan-India boundary along the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and West Bengal were finalized during the boundary meeting earlier this year.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley informed the house that during the 17th round of Bhutan-China boundary talks both countries expressed the desire to demarcate the boundary at the earliest.

He said steady progress has been made in promoting and delivery of Justice. The Judiciary witnessed yet another milestone when it established the National Judicial Commission in August last year.

Speaking on National Security, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley informed the House that the government continues to make every effort to find a durable solution to the issue of the people in the camps in Eastern Nepal.

He said during the 15th Ministerial Joint Committee (MJC) meeting, the two governments have finalized the categorization results.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said that the bilateral process received a setback when the people in the camps attacked the Bhutanese Joint Verification Team (JVT) members during a briefing session.

He said the two governments are presently examining ways of resuming the process.

The Prime Minister said that as His Majesty the King continues to lead the country into a new era of political reforms, people must exercise their franchise responsibly.

He said that the Bhutanese people must choose their leaders and representatives carefully be it at the GYT, DYT or at the national level.

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Finance Minister presents National Budget Report

The Finance Minister, Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu presented the National Budget for 2004-2005 financial year and a report on the past financial year at the National Assembly on Wednesday, 30th June.

The Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu said under the enlightened leadership of His Majesty the King, Bhutan continues to make significant socio-economic progress.

Presenting the report Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu said that the economy is doing well with development activities well on track according to the 9th Five year plan program.

Bhutan achieved a growth rate of 6.5% in the past year. Agriculture continues to be the dominant sector with growth driven mainly by the construction, manufacturing and transportation sectors.

Lyonpo pointed out that though trade deficit continues to persist, it has shown improvement over the past year. The overall Balance of Payment remains favorable at 8%, as aid inflow continues to balance trade deficit.

Bhutan’s foreign reserves stands over 366 million dollars, which is sufficient enough to cover 22 months of imports.

Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu said that with strong levels of growth and a record low inflation of 1.3%, Bhutan continues to enjoy a stable macro-economic environment.

On capital expenditure, the government saw a minimal increase over the year. This was due to the provision for the restoration of roads damaged by monsoon.

Supplementary budget was also included for activities like supply of agricultural machineries, rural electrification and expansion of eastern grid power transmission lines.

On the resource side there was a shortfall of around Nu. 176 million, which resulted in additional deficit of Nu. 352 million. This occurred, as negotiations with some large donors could not be completed at the time of budget preparation.

Presenting the national Budget for the current financial year Lyonpo said there is an increase of 8% over the past year.

Emphasis has been laid on rural electrification, feeder and farm roads and education infrastructure in the dzongkhags. Other substantial budget provision includes low-income housing, construction of the hangar for the new Airplanes at Paro and the Thimphu Babesa Expressway.

Lyonpo also said budget of Nu. 452 million has been earmarked for the gewogs activities. The money will be used to support capacity of locally elected members and strengthening coordination mechanism.

Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu said social service sector continues to receive the biggest share of the budget.

Lyonpo also informed the gathering that Bhutan acceded to the International Finance Corporation (IFC). This he said will help private sector, as it will allow them to borrow directly from the Corporation.

Lyonpo said that discussions are also underway to finance the establishment of a nationwide television broadcasting service. Lyonpo informed that the financial sector continues to perform well and the problem of excess liquidity has been reduced considerably.

The Finance Minister said that external assistance, grants and borrowing, continue to fund 80% of the capital expenditure. He said that Bhutan continues to enjoy close cooperation with its development partners especially its closest friend and neighbour, India.

The Finance Minister said that Gross National Happiness (GNH), which stresses on development with equal emphasis on material and spiritual needs is increasingly recognized as a development model.

Following the presentation, the Chimis submitted that it is important to minimize the interest rate on the loan granted for the rural areas. The speaker said that study would be carried to see its feasibility.

Chimis also raised concern on the award of contracts with regard to Thimphu Phuntsholing double lane highway.

They said that Private contractors be involved as far as possible. This they said will help address the country’s growing unemployment concern.

The National Assembly resumes with discussions on the development activities on Thursday, 1st July.

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National Assembly discuss road communication

The National Assembly deliberated on development activities with focus on the construction and expansion of the road network on Thursday, 1st July.

The people of Sarpang Dzongkhag submitted the need to build an internal road from Sipsoo to Daifam. The Sarpang Chimi said that this will help ease the unnecessary hassle Bhutanese face from across the border while traveling through India.

The Chimis also expressed the need to award contract works to Bhutanese contractors as far as possible while executing road constructions.

The Chimis said this will enhance economic growth, promote people to people contact between the dzongkhags and generate employment.

The Minister for Works and Human Settlement Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji said the construction of the road from Sipsoo to Daifam has been included in the 9th five-year plan. However it could not be carried out due to security reason in the south.

The Works and Human Settlement minister said that one of the drawbacks was the lack of fund.

The House considering the importance of the road resolved that the construction of the Sipsoo -Daifam highway should be included in the next plan.

The House also decided that wherever possible 50% of the contract should be given to the Bhutanese contractors.

The Mongar Chimi submitted that the Gyelopzhing-Nganglam road be constructed at the earliest possible. He said the road will benefit the 6 eastern dzongkhags.

Of the total length of 67 kilometers, construction of 25 kilometers will be taken during the current plan period.

It will be constructed at a cost of around Nu. 204 million with assistance from the Government of India. 10 kilometers of the road will be taken up this year.

The People Representative of Samtse Dzongkhag submitted that the Samtse-Phuntsholing highway also be built as soon as possible. The Samtse Chimi highlighted problems faced by people in the absence of an internal road link with other dzongkhags.

The construction was discussed during the 81st session of the National Assembly.

The Minister of Works and Human Settlement said works on the highway will begin after the geo-technical studies of the area have been completed.

He added that the highway could not included for the 9th plan due to major fund constraint. The first 10 kilometers will be constructed at a cost of Nu. 30 million as per the decision of the National Assembly.

The House also resolved that the remaining 69 kilometers will be built depending on the availability of fund.

The people of Samdrupjongkhar submitted the need for the construction of the Deothang-Nganglam and Samdrupcholing-Jomotshangkha road.

The House resolved that the construction of the road be included in the next five year plan.

The House also deliberated extensively on the need to widen and improve the East-West lateral highway. The Tashigang Chimi said that it is the only highway connecting the East and West.

He said that frequent roadblocks due to landslides in summer and snow in winter makes road communication unreliable.

The Minister of Works and Human Settlement Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji reported to the House that widening and maintenance of the highway is being carried out. He said that this is being done as per the Command of His Majesty the King.

The House will continue on Friday with discussions on development activities in the Kingdom.

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National Assembly continue discuss on road communication

The National Assembly continued discussions on the widening and improvement of the East West Highway on Friday, 2nd July.

Chimis expressed concern about the use of new technique for black topping of the highway. Chimis also expressed concern on the quality of the work and corruption in the construction sector.

The Minister of Works and Human Settlement, Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji said the new technique of black topping is more advantageous. The method is environment friendly, efficient and faster in term of completing the work.

The Minister informed the members that the Construction Development Board has been strengthened. He said that private sector has an equally important role in improving quality and in tackling corruption.

The House resolved that the new technique used in black topping was environment friendly and will continue.

The people of Zhemgang requested the Royal Government to extend the motor road from Buli till Shingkhar towards Mongar.

The Zhemgang Chimi said the road will not only benefit the people of interior Kheng, like Bardo, but the eastern region as well.

Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji said that the proposal is not included in the 9th five-year plan.
During the current plan a 45-kilometer road from Gomphu to Panbang and another 9-kilometer feeder road from Gomphu to Praling is being built.

Another 37-kilometer road is also being built from Dakpai to Buli in Zhemgang.

The people of Chukha dzongkhag submitted the need for a road to Dungna gewog.

Lyonpo said that feasibility study for the extension of the road from Kuenkha to Dungna and to Metakha was carried out last year.

The construction of this road, estimated to cost Nu. 228 million, has not been included in the 9th plan.

Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji said the construction of this road can be considered only after the Phuntsholing-Samtse Highway is constructed.

This was followed by discussion on the construction of agriculture farm road. Chimis spoke of the need to construct farm roads for the balanced socio-economic development of the country.

The Minister of Agriculture, Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup informed the House that Nu. 588 kilometers is targeted to be constructed during the current plan period.

Of the total length, 118 kilometers has already been completed. The remaining will be taken up by the end of the current plan.

The Agriculture Minister also informed the House on the construction of roads for power tillers. The project to construct 229 kilometer road for power tillers will begin from Nabji Korphu in Trongsa in September this year.

The Chimis also submitted that the supply of power tillers to the villagers at subsidized rates be continued. The Chimis put up a request for study tours for farmers to the countries where agriculture is mechanized and advanced.

The Agriculture Minister said that the government is exploring the possibility with the Government of India.

The House will continue discussion on the development activities after the weekend recess.

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National Assembly discuss telecommunication and rural electrification

The National Assembly continued discussion on development activities on Monday, 5th July.

The House focused on rural telecommunication and electrification and the construction of security walls along the India-Bhutan border.

People of Mongar submitted that telecommunication facility is seen as one of the basic services, which will help connect people with the rest of the world.

The Chimi said the service will not only facilitate timely communication but save time and expenses.

The Minister of Information and Communications, Lyonpo Leki Dorji said the facilities will be made available to all the gewogs by the end of the current plan period.

The people of Trongsa and Bumthang submitted to the House the shortage of electricity faced by the dzongkhags.

The Chimis said that this has affected economic activities in both the dzongkhags. The Chimis requested if power could be made available from Kurichu through the transmission line in Tingtibi.

The people of Punakha submitted if along with the electrification of Gasa Dzongkhag, electricity could also be supplied to Goenshari gewog.

The Mongar Chimi requested the need for electricity to Gongdue, Thangrong, Kengkhar, Jurmey, Shermung, Balam and Chaskhar gewogs.

The Minister of Trade and Industry, Lyonpo Yeshey Zimba said that all the dzongkhags will be provided with electricity within the next 15 years.

The Minister informed the House that the Kurichu transmission lines will reach Trongsa and Bumthang during the current plan. He however informed the House that the electrification of Goenshari is not included in the current plan.

The Tengye Lyonpo said that a total of 15,000 households will be provided with electricity within the 9th plan period.

The House also raised concern about under utilization of power allocated to the industries. They said that underutilized power could either be exported or supplied to the rural areas.

The members also expressed gratitude to the Government of India for assisting the rural electrification program.

The House also discussed the need to build border security walls in Samdrupjongkhar. The Samdrupjongkhar Chimi submitted that the existing wall below the town be extended.

The House was also informed of the need to construct security walls below Nanglam town and from Jomotsangchu to Daifam.

The Minister for Home and Cultural Affairs, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said the government would study the submission and take into consideration several factors including the sentiments of people living on the other side of the border.

The Nangsi Lyonpo said the report will be submitted during the next session of the National Assembly.

The country’s business community submitted the need for a Permanent River training works along Toorsa River.

The Minister of Works and Human Settlements, Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji said the government had spent around Nu. 90 million for riverbank protection works on the Om Chhu and Amo Chhu following the floods of 2000.

The Minister informed the house that the cabinet has approved the proposal to reclaim about 1,500 acres of land along the Amo Chhu bank. The area will be used for industrial development.

The House will resume on Tuesday, 6th July, with discussion on the construction of illegal structures.

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National Assembly continue discussions on development activites

The National Assembly continued discussions on issues related to development activities on Tuesday, 6th July. The House focused on the construction of illegal structures within 50 feet on either sides of the road.

The Minister of Works and Human Settlements, Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji said 50 feet wide land on both sides of the road is necessary for future widening of the roads including the national highways, district and feeder roads.

Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji said the measure would also avoid risk to people and houses if they are constructed too close to the road.

The Zhabtog Lyonpo reported that so far around 1600 houses and buildings have been built within 50 feet of the road.

Outlining the submission of the Zhabtog Lhenkhag, Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji said houses and buildings on legally registered land within the right of way before 1st March 1988, and those constructed, after, on legally registered land with prior approval should be acquired by the government, after providing appropriate compensation.

Furthermore, houses and buildings constructed on government or legally registered land without prior approval should be demolished and removed without compensation for buildings and houses.

The Zhabtog Lyonpo added that in future, as soon as the road alignment is finalized, legally registered land and houses and buildings falling with road right of way should be acquired and registered in the name of the concerned road agencies to prevent construction of structures with the road right of way.

The proposal of the Zhabtog Lhenkhag drew a steady stream of submissions from the Chimis and other members of the National Assembly.

Members of the House raised concerns on various aspects of the proposal in relation to the existing legal framework and compensation.

The Zhabtog Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji said the rules and regulations for construction of temporary, semi-permanent and permanent houses on either sides of the roads was passed on 12th January 1993 by the Lhengye Zhungtshog during its 136th session.

Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji added that a thorough discussion and resolution of the issue would facilitate the enactment of the Draft Road Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan 2004 in the coming month.

Summing up the discussion, the National Assembly Speaker Dasho Ugyen Dorji said buildings and houses on government land, constructed with or without approval would not qualify for compensation.

However houses and buildings on legally registered land would be compensated according to existing norms. Land and houses falling within the road right of way will be compensated or substituted as per the existing law of the Kingdom.

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National Assembly deliberate on border talks

The National Assembly saw extensive discussions on Bhutan-China border talks on Wednesday, 7th July.

Chimis from Thimphu and Dagana and the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry requested the royal government to inform the House on the outcome of the 17th round of border talks between Bhutan and China.

The Chimis also requested for a briefing on the progress of the implementation of the decisions of the previous talks.

The Secretary of International Boundary, Dasho Pema Wangchuk, informed the house that the 16th round of border talks between Bhutan and China decided that the two nations would exchange maps with respective claim line on 1:500,000-scale map.

The two governments would then examine the maps and the differences in the claim line would be projected on 1:100,000-scale map.

It was also decided that a joint field survey verification would be undertaken before the final demarcation of the boundary.

Submitting the report on the 17th round of border talks, Dasho Pema Wangchuk, said that the Chinese delegation had not brought with them the 1:500,000-scale map with their claim line as agreed during the 16th round of talks.

The Chinese delegation said they had examined Bhutan’s claim line given to them during the First Expert Group Meeting in June 2002 in Beijing. It was found that differences still existed between claim lines of the two countries.

Dasho Pema Wangchuk submitted to the House that at the 17th round of border talks, the Chinese delegation had proposed to meet at technical level meeting as many times as necessary.

He reported to the House that the delegations would meet until they arrive at an agreed common line, which is mutually beneficial for both the countries.

Dasho Pema Wangchuk said that after the maps are exchanged at the technical level, the agreed common line would then be reported to the National Assembly before being projected on the map.

It was decided that a joint survey would be carried out to demarcate the boundary. This he said would then be submitted to the respective national parliaments for ratifications.

His Majesty the King said border talks with China are carried out as per the decision and resolutions of the National Assembly.

His Majesty said since most of the members of the National Assembly were new, they should be familiarized with the map of 1989.

During the 68th session of the National Assembly held in 1989, members of the National Assembly visited the Royal Bhutan Army auditorium in Lungtenphu to view the sand model and maps relating to Bhutan’s boundary with China.

On the occasion, the historical and traditional factors and the difficulties and problems connected to the related boundary lines were clearly explained with the help of the sand model and maps.

The National Assembly then approved the government’s proposal on the boundary negotiations in acceptance of which the then Speaker Lyonpo Sangye Penjor and the Deputy Speaker Dasho Passang Dorji subscribed their signatures on the maps on behalf of the National Assembly members.

At the National Assembly on Wednesday, the Speaker Dasho Ugyen Dorji informed the House that discussions on Bhutan-China border talks would resume after the presentation of the 1989 map to the members of the National Assembly on Friday.

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National Assembly deliberate on the attack on the Bhutanese JVT

The National Assembly on Wednesday, 7th July, saw extensive deliberations on the attack on the Bhutanese Joint Verification Team (JVT) by the people living in the camps in eastern Nepal.

On December 22nd 2003, the people in the camps in eastern Nepal physically assaulted and verbally abused the Bhutanese Joint Verification Team.

People’s Representatives from the kingdom’s 20 dzongkhags and the business community expressed their shock, anger and concerns on the incident.

The Chimis requested for clarifications on the kind of security arrangements provided by the Nepalese government for the safety of the Bhutanese verification team.

The Chimis also requested for information on the progress and status of investigation into the incident and the actions taken by the Nepalese government against the perpetrators.

They said the verification exercise cannot continue until the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice.

The Chimis said the government should not allow the people in the camps to come back to Bhutan.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk submitted an extensive report on the background and the work of the verification team and its achievements.

The Foreign Minister said the Joint Verification Team (JVT) started its work on the Khudanabari camp on 26th March 2001. The results of the categorization of the people in the camps were announced to the people in the camps on 18th June 2003.

Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk said the leaders of the people in the camps condemned and some even called for rejection of the categorization results.

After declaring the categorization results, 15 days were given for those who wanted to appeal against their category. 2,965 appeals were received. No consensus on the appeals was reached by the JVT and the matter was referred to the 15th Ministerial Joint Committee (MJC) meeting.

The 15th MJC was held from 20th to 23rd October 2003. After intensive discussions, the 15th MJC confirmed the categorization results of category 1, 2 and 4.

With the Khudanabari camp’s population at over 12,000 and having 7 sectors, it was decided to carry out the briefing for one sector in December. On December 2003, the Bhutanese JVT visited the Khudanabari camp to conduct the briefing for sector A.

Half hour through the briefing, a group of people forced their way into the hall and joined those inside and began to attack the Bhutanese Verification Team (BVT) members.

Following the assault, the Royal Government of Bhutan called back the BVT team immediately in consideration of their safety, security and treatment.

Responding to the submission of the Chimis on whether there was any security arrangement for the BVT at the time of the incident, the Foreign Minister said that there was lack of proper security and poor meeting arrangements.

Lyonpo also submitted that the Royal Government at the time of the incident was occupied with the operations against the Indian militants.

Calling upon the incident, the royal government requested the Nepalese Government to carry out an investigation, and action against the perpetrators be taken up.

The Royal Government also emphasized the importance of putting in place safety and necessary measures before resuming work in order to prevent similar incidents.

The Nepalese government had presented a report on the investigation of the incident, which was received in May. It said that no individual could be identified as being responsible for the incident.

The Foreign Minister Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk said the report contains factual inaccuracies and makes baseless allegations that the attack was provoked by the Bhutanese terms and conditions and calls on the royal government to relax its terms and conditions further.

Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuck said there are clear agreements and understandings between the governments to respect each other’s terms and conditions.

Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk said the members of the BVT, on reading the report, expressed dismay at the callous manner in which a serious incident had been lightly treated by the Nepalese government.

The members of the BVT noted the lack of proper security, the poor meeting arrangements and the aggressive manner in which the members of the Nepalese verification team conducted themselves on the day contributed to the beating and humiliation of the Bhutanese officials.

Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk said despite severe shortcomings and inaccuracies of the report, the Royal Government of Bhutan indicated to the Nepalese Government that in the interest of moving the bilateral process forward, the royal government could consider the report positively if Nepal deleted the unacceptable reference to relaxation of Bhutan’s terms and conditions.

The Nepalese Foreign Minister had conveyed that he appreciated and understood Bhutan’s views but would have to consult his cabinet to get a fresh report sent.

With the change of government in Nepal, Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk said the fluid political and security situation in Nepal continues to be a source of serious concern.

Concluding his submission, Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk said the royal government on its part will abide by all the agreements it has reached with the government in Nepal to find a lasting and durable solution to the issue of the people in the camps in Nepal.

Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk said this includes the commitment to take back all those people in the camp who have been found to be genuine Bhutanese refugees.

In carrying out the discussions and agreements with the Nepalese government, the royal government of Bhutan will continue to be guided by the national laws, the Citizenship Act, and the resolutions of the National Assembly.

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National Assembly continue discussion on the attack on Bhutanese JVT

The National Assembly on Thursday, 8th July, continued discussions on the attack on the Bhutanese joint verification team by the people living in the camps in eastern Nepal.

Responding to the Foreign Minister’s report to the National Assembly, Chimis expressed their anger and concern that the Nepalese government could treat the incident so lightly.

The Chimis submitted that the government should not resume talks on the issue of the people living in the camps in eastern Nepal until and unless the perpetrators are apprehended and punished.

The Sarpang Chimi described the incident as unacceptable. He said what guarantee can the Nepalese government provide that such incidents will not happen in the future.

The Chimis emphasized the importance of putting in place necessary security measures to prevent similar incidents in future, should the talks resume.

The Foreign Minister Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk informed the House that the royal government has asked the Nepalese government to launch an investigation into the incident to identify and take action against the perpetrators.

Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk also informed the House that the royal government has asked the Nepalese government for proper security measures in future.

The National Assembly resolved that the royal government on its part will abide by the agreements reached with the government in Nepal to find a lasting and durable solution to the issue.

It was resolved that in carrying out discussions and agreements with the Nepalese government, the royal government will continue to be guided by the national laws, the Citizenship Act, and the resolutions of the earlier National Assembly sessions.

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145 people undergoing trial for assisting ULFA, NDFB and KLO militants

The National Assembly held further discussions on the punishment of people who extended assistance to the ULFA, NDFB and KLO militants, on Friday, 9th July.

Responding to the report presented by the Prime Minister on Thursday, the Chimis submitted that investigations should continue. They said there could be many others involved in assisting the militants.

The Chimis also requested the House for a complete background of the people including their profession and origin. The Chimis also insisted that the identity of these people be made public through the media.

The members repeatedly urged the House that the offenders must be punished and their properties be seized.

In response, the Prime Minister, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley, said that investigations are being continued. He informed the house that the latest figure now stands at 145.

The Prime Minister said that 22 of them have been convicted and the rest are undergoing trail.

Upon requests by the Chimis, the Prime Minister said that 8 of the offenders were civil servants, which includes a watchman. 4 were identified as National Labor Force, 3 private contractors and 36 business people. There were a total of 94 villagers including 7 truckers and drivers.

As submitted by the Chimis, the Prime Minister Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said that the people will be dealt with as per the National Security Act by the Royal Court of Justice.

The House resolved that the government should continue investigations. The Speaker Dasho Ugyen Dorji said a detailed profile of those involved would be made available to the members on Monday, 12th July.

Deliberations on Thursday

The members of National Assembly on Thursday, 8th July, submitted that those people who extended assistance to the ULFA, NDFB and KLO militants should be punished as per the National Security Act.

One after another, the Chimis said the crimes committed by these people are detrimental to the peace and security of the country. They said such acts of treason must be punished without any clemency.

In response, the Prime Minister, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said the issue requires a serious contemplation by the nation’s highest legislative body. Presenting the government report on the military operation, Lyonpo Jigmi Thinley said a total of 145 people who extended assistance to the militants were arrested, of which 22 have been convicted. He added that the rest are undergoing trail.

The Prime Minister said the Bhutanese who have had to fight the people of Assam and West Bengal found no reason to celebrate except to be grateful and be relieved.

He said that His Majesty the King had been most reluctant to take military action and had personally made many direct efforts to make the militants leave peacefully.

Lyonpo Jigmi Thinley submitted that every effort had been made, to negotiate a peaceful departure of the militants from Bhutanese soil. All options to prevent a war as desired by His Majesty the King had been exhausted.

Casualties

The House was informed on the casualties suffered on both the sides. He said that some 485 ULFA, NDFB and KLO militants were either captured or killed.

On the Bhutanese side 11 soldiers died and 35 others were injured. All captured militants were handed over to the Indian army along with arms, ammunition and equipment recovered.

The prisoners he said were treated like Bhutanese soldiers as per His Majesty’s command.

The Prime Minister also expressed gratitude to the Government of India for the support Bhutan received during the operation.

This, he said, has further strengthened the traditional ties of friendship and cooperation between the two neighbours.

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National Assembly members briefed on Bhutan’s boundary map of 1989

The National Assembly continued deliberations on Bhutan-China Boundary talks on Friday, 9th July.

The Secretary of the International Boundary, as commanded by His Majesty the King on Wednesday, briefed the National Assembly members on the map of 1989.

The map was approved during the 68th session of the National Assembly in the same year. The map bearing the signatures of the then Speaker, Lyonpo Sangay Penjor and the Deputy Speaker, Dasho Pasang Dorji, were approved for boundary negotiations with China.

The approved boundary line runs from Batangla towards Mirukla to Sinchula and to Amochhu. From the confluence of Ammo Chhu it runs through the confluence of Dotserim-Chang and Langmarpo Chhu. From there it extends to Gomla, Pankala and to Dramana. The line extends till Lungkala on the western side.

In the east, it runs from Moenlakarchung to Dompala and to Choegungla through Yangjula and to Newla uptill Tshozam.

Responding to the concerns raised by the Chimis of Haa, Kawang and Chang Gewogs on armed threats from across the border, Dasho Pema Wangchuk said that it is not true. He added that cross border grazing and patrolling exists between people on both the sides.

As far as tax demanded by the authorities on the other side is concerned, Bhutanese are advised not to pay any tax. He informed the House that not a single ngultrum has been paid.

The Secretary of International Boundary, Dasho Pema Wangchuk said that talks will continue after both the countries exchange maps with their claim lines. This he said was agreed during the 16th round of border talks between Bhutan and China.

He said the Chinese had proposed to meet at technical level until the two sides arrive at an agreed common line, which is mutually beneficial for both.

The House resolved that the agreed common line projected on the map will be submitted to the National Assembly before it is finalized.

It was decided that talks would continue as per the resolutions of the earlier National Assembly sessions.

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Revised Personal Income Tax

The National Assembly discussed the revised Personal Income Tax (PIT) on Friday, 9th July.

After extensive deliberations last year, the 81st session of the National Assembly resolved that a separate proposal should be prepared and submitted during the current National Assembly session.

Accordingly a committee comprising of National Assembly members and officials from the Ministry of Finance and the Department of Revenue and Customs was formed to prepare the revised Personal Income Tax (PIT).

Under the revised PIT, Bhutanese nationals who earn between Nu. 100,000 -250,000 will be required to pay 6% of their income as personal income tax.

Those who earn between Nu. 250,000 – 500,000 will be charged 9%.

Bhutanese nationals with income between Nu. 500,000 – 1,000,000 will pay 12%. Those earning more than a million will be charged 15%.

Under the previous income tax, those falling in the highest income bracket paid 25%. The lowest income bracket paid 10%.

Presenting the revised personal income tax, the Finance Minister Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu, said PIT has been reduced by 40% across various income brackets.

The revised personal income tax as submitted by the Finance Minister was approved by the National Assembly.

Net Taxable income	Tax Rate
Up to Nu. 100,000	Nil (basic exepemtion)
Nu. 100,001 - Nu. 250,000	6%
Nu. 250,001 - Nu. 500,000	9%
Nu. 500,001 - Nu. 1,000,000	12%
Nu. 1,000,001 and above	15%

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Tax on Foreign allowance and representational grants waived off

The National Assembly held extensive deliberations on foreign allowances and grants to ambassadors and representatives abroad.

The foreign allowances and representational grants are given to offset the cost of living in a foreign country. After 1998 it was decided that all ambassadors and country representatives should pay taxes, according to their income.

The Finance Minister, Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu, informed the house that some of the taxes had been cleared while some have not been cleared. He said if they are to waive off the tax, whether it should be from 2001 onwards when tax collection began or whether it should be from 2004 onwards.

The Foreign Minister Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk informed the house that allowance to ambassadors and representatives are much lower than other countries.

He said the number of the offices abroad has also been reduced in view of the heavy expenditure.

Though Bhutan has ambassadors and representatives in 22 countries and is a member of some 48 agencies and organizations, the kingdom has embassies and offices only in 6 countries with only 34 Bhutanese people working. These embassies have to deal with the Kingdom’s international relations with all the 22 countries.

After much deliberation the House decided that both foreign allowance and representational grants as of 2001would not be taxed.

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Population and Housing Census to be conducted in 2005

The National Assembly on Monday, 12th July discussed the Population and Housing Census to be conducted in 2005.

The Minister of Home and Cultural Affairs, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley informed the House that till now, there has not been a comprehensive population census.

He said in order to get the right figure of the total number of people in the country and the number of expatriates working in the country, it was necessary to carryout a detailed census.

He said that this would also be helpful as indicators while getting funds from donor countries.

As commanded by His Majesty the King, since funds are released by donor agencies looking at the population and requirements of the country, it is essential that Bhutan conduct a thorough population and housing census.

In keeping with this, the royal government has decided that a population and housing census will be carried out in 2005.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley informed the House that the census will be carried out at a stretch over a two-day period. For this purpose, he said that there should be a holiday for two days during which all the people should stay at home.

He said the government will be taking over 6000 people, mostly teachers, students and officials, as census enumerators.

The Home Minister also requested the Chimis to extend their support in explaining the census procedures to the people in their respective gewogs.

The House decided that a separate meeting will be held on Tuesday, 13th July, after the National Assembly session at the Royal Banquet Hall to decide on the procedures and the submission made by the Home Minister on the Population and Housing Census to be conducted in 2005.

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State of the Environment Report

The National Assembly saw the report on the State of the Environment on Monday, 12th July.

The report highlights the impact of development on the environment. It is meant to inform, sensitize and facilitate better understanding of emerging environmental issues among the Bhutanese.

Presenting the State of the Environment Report, the Deputy Minister of the National Environment Commission (NEC), Dasho Nado Rinchen, said a systematic environmental framework is now in place.

This will enable the Bhutanese to consider the sustainable development challenges. He said the focus now should be on implementation of the framework and capacity building.

The Deputy Minister of Environment said that in 2003 alone, the National Environment Commission assessed and reviewed over 164 development projects. In addition, the Commission also conducts environment monitoring of all existing industries and mines annually.

The NEC has also conducted environment awareness workshops for DYT and GYT members.

Dasho Nado Rinchen informed the House, that one of the frequent criticism received by the NEC is that environmental clearance takes too long.

To expedite the environment clearance process, the NEC has proposed the establishment of Dzongkhag Environmental Committees (DECs) in all the 20 dzongkhags. It has already been established in 10 dzongkhags.

The Deputy Minister said the increased GDP growth rate of 6.57% brought about by rapid industrialization and urbanization during the last decade has put increased pressure on the environment and the natural resources.

He said air pollution is an emerging issue especially in urban areas.

From 1997 till 2002, the number of industries has increased from 4,394 to 13,908. The number of vehicles has also increased from 11,798 vehicles in 1997 to over 25,000 vehicles in 2003.

The NEC has been measuring the air quality in Thimphu and Phuentsholing and monitoring industrial air pollutions. A trans-boundary air pollution monitoring station was also established at Bhur, Gelephu in 2002.

The government has started importing unleaded petrol and environment friendly fuel and emission tests are done regularly.

The report also highlighted the need to maintain the integrity of Bhutan’s watersheds and the need to protect the unpolluted water resources.

Dasho Nado Rinchen said while the country’s water resources is very healthy, there are localized pollution problems than needs attention to avoid related health problems.

The Deputy Minister informed the House, that the country is experiencing both natural and manmade land use changes due to a number of activities. He said that population growth will aggravate the situation and further worsen land degradation, if timely measures are not taken.

Dasho Nado Rinchen said roads are important for the country’s economic growth, but it has the largest impact on the environment in Bhutan.

He said to reduce the impact of road construction, initiatives, such as the Environment Friendly Road Construction methods should be encouraged.

The Deputy Minister of Environment said, in order to ensure over 60% of land under forest cover for all times to come, the government needs to be more cautious and rigid in its land allotment policies.

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Expatriate workers in the country

The National Assembly also discussed the policies and legislations for the employment of expatriate workers.

The Minister of Labour and Human Resources, Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering informed the house that there are over 60,000 expatriate workers in the country. These include those who come to work during the day in the border areas.

Most of them are employed by the construction industry. Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering said they are needed since the Bhutanese people do not have necessary skills or are not willing to take up vocational works.

He said the majority of the expatriate workers are employed by the three major Hydropower projects and the rest are working for various road and building constructions.

The total number exceeds the highest limit of 45,000 expatriates that is allowed in the country. Chimis expressed concern over expatriates who are in the country without legal documents and immigration pass.

The Minister of Home and Cultural Affairs, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said, since last year, there were 1581 expatriates working in Bhutan without proper documents.

These include construction workers, servants, and baby sitters. Thos who did not have proper documents were sent back home. They were also fined for not having proper documents or for staying beyond the time permit.

The Home and Cultural Affairs Minister also informed the house that they are drafting a Chathrim on expatriates entering the country, which will be submitted to the next National Assembly session.

On the issue of unemployment, Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering said His Majesty the King has commanded that no Bhutanese should be left unemployed.

Accordingly the ministry of labour and human resources is working on ways to generate more employment opportunities. Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering said during the 9th Five-year plan, there will be some fifty thousand job seekers.

He said most of the youth are reluctant to take up jobs in the private sector because they feel that the pay is low and the working hours are odd. They also feel that training opportunities in foreign countries in the private sector are less.

Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering said the youth are also reluctant to take up jobs in the private sector because they feel they may have to do manual work and there is no job security.

Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering said the ministry is working to make the benefits in the private sector at par with government services.

With the private sector still in its developing stage, he said it is difficult for them to provide employment to all the job seekers.

He said the government should work out ways to develop the private sector further and create more jobs.

As part of efforts to provide employment, the Ministry of Labour and Human Resources has signed Memorandum of Understanding with 78 private sectors companies and enterprises since 2002.

Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering informed the house that there are more female students completing secondary high schools but when it comes to jobs, opportunities are more for men.

The Speaker concluded by saying that the Ministry of Labour and Human Resources has been working hard to reduce the problem of unemployment.

He said the government needs to be strict with its immigration policies so that expatriates do not enter the country without proper documents.

He said that once the Chathrim comes into effect, the problem of illegal immigrants can be dealt accordingly.

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Discussions on State of the Environment report

The National Assembly on Tuesday, 13th July, saw extensive deliberations on the State of the Environment Report.

Chimis said the importance of conserving the environment has also been highlighted by Gross National Happiness (GNH) – Bhutan’s development philosophy.

One of the four pillars of GNH is conservation of the environment and natural resources. The Chimis inquired about the Nu. 200,000 each dzongkhag is getting as small grants for implementing environment conservation activities.

They asked if the money was to be equally distributed among all the gewogs or for conservation activities in certain gewogs.

In response, the Deputy Minister of Environment, Dasho Nado Rinchen said it is up to the DYT and GYT to decide how to use the money.

He said the activities implemented in the dzongkhags will be reported to the donor agencies.

People’s representatives said grassroots leaders and communities should be trained well on environment issues.

They said a few days awareness workshop alone is not enough. Chimis also expressed concerns on the destruction of forest and land due to road construction.

The Minister of Works and Human Settlement, Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji, said they are working with experts from outside on Environment Friendly Road Construction methods in order to reduce the hazards to the environment.

The Speaker informed the House, that Bhutan is a model in environment conservation and visitors who come to the country are impressed by the conservation policy and practices in the kingdom.

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Deliberations on registration of religious artifacts of public and private Choekhangs

The National Assembly deliberated on the registration and identification of religious artifacts of public and private Choekhangs on Wednesday, 14th July.

The Minister of Home and Cultural Affairs, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said till now, only those artifacts in Public Choekhangs are registered. From now on all religious artifacts of private Choekhangs will be registered as well.

Since last year, registration has been completed in a total of 7 dzongkhags. By the end of the current plan period, registration of Nangtens is expected to be completed in all the dzongkhags.

The Home and Cultural Affairs Minister informed the House that it is necessary to conduct a detailed registration and identification.

He said that all the Nangtens in the country should be registered and if found missing or robbed it should be reported to the authorities immediately.

He said, if the religious artifacts are not registered, there are chances that the artifacts might disappear without anybody’s knowledge.

The Home and Cultural Affairs Minister informed the House the Government has signed an agreement with UNESCO, which will help trace the lost artifacts.

Some of the ancient artifacts include nangten terma, antique statues, thankas and pechas, Phurpa and Chag-zo.

The Yangbi Lopen, appealed to the House, the need for security at certain Lhakhags and Goendeys, located at remote areas.

Chimis also said that most people are reluctant to register since they feel that after registering, they would be fined or punished in case the artifact is lost.

The Speaker said it is important to differentiate between old and new religious artifacts and the registration process.

The Speaker concluded that a Chathrim should be drafted for the registration of religious artifacts of public and private Choekhangs.

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Discussions on the 2004 manual for DYT and GYT Chathirms

The National Assembly held discussions on the Dzongkhag Yargye Tshogdu (DYT) and Gewog Yargye Tshogchung (GYT) manual on Wednesday, 14th July.

The Prime Minister, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley reported to the House on the annual DYT and GYT conference held earlier this year.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said that in line with the decentralization policy, the DYT and GYT Chathrims were enacted in 2002. Extensive deliberations have been held on various aspects of the Chathrim.

Chimis submitted that the main problem for them with the GYT manual is that, both the administrative and the chairmanship of the GYT fall on the Gup.

Chimis requested that as in the DYT, where administration lies with the Dzongda, and the chairmanship is done by other members, so should be in the GYT.

The changes then would eventually lead to the success of the decentralization policy.

The Prime Minister reported to the House that the issues raised on the Chathrim needs a thorough discussion.

He informed the House that the issue would be discussed during the third annual DYT and GYT conference.

The decisions taken during that conference will be submitted to the next session of the National Assembly.

The House resolved that the manual will be further discussed at the DYT and GYT conference and put up to 83rd session of the National Assembly.

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Discussions on National Security

The National Assembly on Wednesday, 14th July also discussed issues related to National Security.

The Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) Chimi submitted that all school leavers between classes X and XII, should undergo military training ranging from 6 months to 2 years.

This he said will not only create employment but will ensure the availability of trained people to safeguard the interest of the country.

Some of the Chimis expressed that instead of making it mandatory for all school leavers, they should be taken selectively.

Dozin (Brigadier) Battu Tshering submitted that instead of training school leavers for a short period it would be better to strengthen the existing armed force.

The Speaker said that the issue will be looked at during the next session of the National Assembly.

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On National Etiquette and National Language

The National Assembly on Thursday, 15th July, continued discussions on Driglam Namzha, or the national etiquette and the national language the Zhungkha.

The Chimis submitted that Dzongkha should be given equal importance as English. They said that official correspondence to the grassroots should be in Dzongkha.

It was also pointed out that meetings and workshops should be conducted in Dzongkha as far as possible.

The Prime Minister Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said in an increasingly globalized world, English is the international language, the language of the sciences, technologies, trade and international relations.

The Prime Minister informed the house that significant improvements have taken place in both written and spoken Dzongkha.

During deliberations on the subject, the Chimis agreed with the Prime Minister. The discussions in the House concurred that the promotion of Dzongkha is an important issue and should be given due importance and attention.

The Minister of Education, Lyonpo Thinley Gyamtsho informed the house that the Dzongkha Development Authority (DDA) has appointed 40 Dzongkha focal people in the dzongkhags, ministries and the armed forces.

Their responsibility he said is to promote the national language. The DDA also conducts annual meetings to review the progress and to discuss areas of improvement.

Lyonpo Thinley Gyamtsho said the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Information and Communications are looking at the possibility of developing Dzongkha software, which can be used widely.

During the deliberations on Thursday, the House resolved that equal importance should be accorded to both Dzongkha and English. It was also decided that all official correspondences with the grassroots would be carried out in Dzongkha.

The National Assembly also resolved that meetings, workshop and seminar be conducted in the national language as far as possible.

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Amendment of the Marriage Act

The National Assembly on Friday, 16th July, discussed the amendment to the Marriage Act.

The House saw an extensive debate on the issue of child maintenance allowance, which the members felt requires further changes.

The Chimis submitted that the parent who is at fault should bear the allowance in the event of a divorce, while some agreed with the existing arrangements in the Marriage Act where the father bears the child support allowance.

According to the amended Marriage Act of 1996, no maintenance allowance should be provided by the father if the wife commits a misdemeanor, and the courts had been levying the child allowance on the husband.

While the Inheritance Act says during discrepancies of the divorced parents with a child, the child would not inherit anything because of the parent’s discrepancies.

Nevertheless, if the child is less than 9 years old the child should be kept with the mother while the father should bear the cost of child maintenance irrespective of who is at fault.

The Chimis also said that there is no need for an amendment if the clause, which states that the father should bear the allowance irrespective of who is at fault, is removed.

The Chimis also requested for reduction in the allowance from 20 % to 12% of the income.
The Chief Justice Lyonpo Sonam Tobgay was invited as the special guest speaker.

The Chief Justice said the members should deliberate and decide on the amendment of the act.

Lyonpo Sonam Tobgay said the decision will then be executed by the Judiciary. The Chief Justice added that any issue related to marriage, divorce and child support at the moment is being dealt with the amended Marriage Act of 1996.

The House resolved that the issue should be scrutinized by the High Court and the Legislative Committee and submitted to the 83rd session of the National Assembly.

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Shifting dzongkhag administration office from Sarpang to Gelephu

The National Assembly on Monday, 19th July, discussed the shifting of dzongkhag administration office from Sarpang to Gelephu.

The Sarpang Chimi submitted that proposal to shift the dzongkhag administration office from Shorpang-kha to Gelephu is based on the increased economic activity in Gelephu.

He said the Rabdey is located in Gelephu and major institutions are also being established at Phulahari under Bhur Gewog.

The Chimi said it would be appropriate if the dzongkhag administration could also be shifted to Gelephu.

The Sarpang Dzongda, Sonam Dawa said it will be more convenient to have the dzongkhag administration shifted to Gelephu.

The Minister of Home and Cultural Affairs, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said the administration was shifted from Gelephu to Shorpang-Kha in 1989 considering the communication infrastructure and population.

Since then Sarpang has grown both in terms of population and economic activities. Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs will carry out a study and summit the report to the 83rd session of the National Assembly.

The House also deliberated on the establishment of a new dungkhag at Weringla under Mongar Dzongkhag. The Mongar Chimi said Silambi and Gongdue gewogs are the most remote gewogs in the dzongkhag.

The Chimi said the two gewogs are totally cut off during the rainy season. He said the lack of proper road communication is a major drawback in implementing development activities.

He said the establishment a dungkhag at Weringla, which is centrally located, would facilitate the effective implementation of development programs.

The House resolved that the establishment of the new Dungkhag at Weringla would be discussed by the Lhengye Zhungtshog and submitted to the 83rd session of the National Assembly.

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Discussion on miscellaneous issues, including unemployment and rural credit

The House also discussed the need to change the scarf of the National Assembly Speaker.

Most Chimis said the National Assembly being the highest decision-making body of the country, the Speaker be conferred the minister’s scarf.

The House also saw extensive deliberations on the strengthening the Indo-Bhutan border security.

The Chimis of Paro, Bumthang and Haa said the patrolling of the Indo-Bhutan border areas needs to be strengthened by conducting regular security patrolling.

Dozin Batoo Tshering of RBA reported to the house that security has been beefed up from Daifam in the east to Sibsoo in the southwest.

The Prime Minister Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said the government appreciated the concern expressed by the Chimis. Lyonpo Jigmi Thinley said the kingdom’s security forces, as submitted by Dozin Battoo Tshering, are patrolling the border areas.

The government also continues to give high priority to improve and shorten the East West highway to facilitate quicker travel within the Kingdom.

The House also discussed the renovation of the old Zhongkhar Dzong in Mongar. The Dzong, which was built in the 11th century, has never been renovated after it was razed by a major fire.

The Prime Minister, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said the government will carry out a study and submit it to the 83rd session of the National Assembly.

The House also discussed the unemployment problem in the kingdom. The Paro Chimi said youth unemployment and related problems such as substance abuse are increasing.

Chimis from various parts of the kingdom said providing interest free loans to school leavers could help solve the problem to some extent.

They said the loans could be used to set up small businesses. School leavers could also purchase agriculture machineries and hire them out.

The Minister of Labour and Human Resources Lyonpo Ugyen Tshering informed the House that interested school leavers are being provided with collateral free loans of Nu. 200,000 to Nu. 300,000 to help them set up small businesses.

They are also being provided with training to help manage and run their businesses.

The Minister of Agriculture, Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup said the Natural Resources Training Institute (NRTI) in Lobesa has been providing training in agriculture to school leavers since 2000. The training is apart from the regular courses provided at the institute.

The Chimis also submitted to the House that the government could provide interest free loans to buy cars and establish private car hiring companies. This, they said, will help reduce government expenditure on office pool vehicles.

The House resolved that a study on the setting up of private vehicle hiring companies will be carried out. It will be submitted to the next session of the National Assembly.

On the reduction of the interest rates on rural credit, the Wangduephodramg, Punakha, and Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) Chimis submitted that rural credit facilities provided by Bhutan Development Finance Corporation (BDFC) have immensely benefited the farmers.

They said it would benefit the farmers even more if the interest rates for rural credit could be reduced from 13% to 10%.

The Minister of Finance, Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu said the Bhutan Development Finance Corporation is trying its best to reduce the interest rates despite high operational costs due to the far-flung location of clients.

The Finance Minister said in the last 6 months alone the BDFC suffered losses of about Nu. 1.5 million.

The House resolved that BDFC rural credit interest rates would be reduced to 10%.

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Assembly discuss bank transaction forms and timber for construction

The National Assembly on Tuesday, 20th July, discussed miscellaneous issues such as making bank transaction forms available both in English and Dzongkha.

The Trongsa, Samdrupjongkhar, Bumthang and Tashigang Chimis submitted that this is one of the most common problems faced by people in the dzongkhags.

With Non-Formal Education (NFE) program well underway, villagers said they are now able to read and write in Dzongkha. They said that this will also help promote the national language.

The Minister of Finance, Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu said the Ministry has already started working on the new forms. The Finance Minister said the banks have already been informed of the need to produce the transaction forms in Dzongkha as well.

The House resolved that the bank transaction forms be provided both in Dzongkha and English.

The House also saw extensive deliberation on the need to have two sessions of the National Assembly in a year. Most Chimes submitted that the Assembly session should be held twice in a year as it was practiced in the past.

The Chimes said that the present duration of the National Assembly is too long, which hampers administrative and development works in the dzongkhags.

Speaking on the advantages of having two sessions the Chimis submitted that it would be easier for them to familiarize themselves with the enactment of Chathrims without having to wait for a year. Moreover, the Chimes said that the ongoing issues to be discussed in the can be done faster.

The Prime Minister, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley agreed with the Chimis and said with rapid economic development, it would be appropriate to have two sessions.

The Prime Minister also proposed that it would be best to have the sessions in Spring and Autumn. The sessions he said should not exceed more than two weeks.

The House decided to have two sessions beginning the 83rd session of the National Assembly. The Speaker Dasho Ugyen Dorji however said that the time and duration of the session will be decided by the Lhengye Zhungtshog.

The National Assembly also discussed the use of timber for rural construction like community schools and out reach clinic.

The Samtse Chimi submitted that the procedure for obtaining approval is long and arduous, which delays implementation of the works.

The Bumthang and Chukha Chimi supported the argument and said that if the Divisional Forest Office in the dzongkhags could approve the same.

The Minister of Agriculture, Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup also said the 81st session of the National Assembly resolved to supply timber for rural construction at subsidized rates.

Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup said that the proposal is not in line with the conservation policies of the royal government. He however assured the House that the procedure will be sped up as early as possible.

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Discussions on Miscellaneous issues

The National Assembly discussed the travel and daily allowance for community leaders.

The Punakha Chimi said in view of the rising cost of living, it would be of immense benefit if the daily allowance for community leaders could be increased.

Chimis from various parts of the kingdom supported the submission of the Punakha Chimi and requested for a raise in the daily allowance for community leaders including that of Gups, Mangmis, Chimis, Gup’s clerks and Tshogpas.

The Minister of Home and Cultural Affairs, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley informed the House that the daily allowance for Gups, Chimis, Mangmis and Gup’s clerks has been revised to Nu. 300.

They will also be receiving additional Nu. 250 per day if they have to visit places, which are not connected by motor road on official duties.

He said their sitting allowance if they are summoned to the capital for meetings has been raised to Nu. 400.

He said Tshogpas and Chepoens will receive a daily allowance of Nu. 100. They will be paid another Nu. 100 per day if they have to travel to places, which are not connected by motorable road.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said allowance and benefits for GYT and DYT chairmen will be discussed by the Lhengye Zhungtshog sometime next month.

Chimis are paid Nu. 1000 for traveling to the various gewogs in their constituencies to brief the people on the decisions of the National Assembly regardless of how many gewogs they visit.

They will now be paid according to the number of gewogs they visit to brief the people.
Discussing the misuse of power, the Thimphu Municipality and Bumthang Chimis submitted that while exercising the powers specified in the DYT and GYT Chathrims, misuse of power for personal benefits is taking place.

The Chimis asked as to who should be responsible for checking and curbing the misuse of power.

The Prime Minister Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said people who are found misusing power shall be dealt with as per the provisions of the DYT and GYT Chathrim of 2002.

The DYT and GYT Chathrim states that people found misusing power can be removed from their post with a simple majority at the GYT or DYT.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said all DYT and GYT members have equal power and should ensure that no member misuses power for personal benefits.

The House resolved that people who are found misusing power shall be dealt with according to the DYT and GYT Chathrim 2002.

It was resolved that the members of the Loday Tshogdu should be responsible to check on people going against the decisions of the National Assembly.

The House also resolved that the Dzongdas should be liable to check on the misuse of power at the Gewog and dzongkhag level.

Retirement benefits for Lams and Lopens

The National Assembly also deliberated on the retirement benefits for old Lams and Lopens on Thursday, 22nd July. Most Chimis requested that there is a need to consider the retirement benefits for old Lams and Lopens.

The Chimis submitted that Lams and Lopens are involved in promoting the Buddha Dharma in the kingdom. They said the Lams and Lopens should be granted retirement benefits, as they have no means to lead a respectable life in their old age.

The Venerable Yangbi Lopen of the Zhung Dratshang also requested for retirement benefits for old Lams and Lopens. Responding to it, the Prime Minister Lyonpo Jigme Thinley, said the Royal Government understands the tireless job of the Dratshang Lhengtshog.

He said the government and the Dratshang Lhengtshog should meet together to look into the problems and constraints faced by the Lams and Lopens.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said the proceedings of the meeting would then be put up to the Lhengye Zhngtshog.

The House resolved that the retirement benefits for old Lams and Lopens will be decided by the Lhengye Zhungtshog after discussions with the Dratshang Lhengtshog.

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Revision in land compensation and acquisition of land

The National Assembly also discussed the revision in land compensation and acquisition of land on Friiday, 23rd July.

The Bumthang Chimi submitted that the compensation rate of Nu. 5000 per acre for land acquired by the Government is inadequate. He requested the House to revise the compensation rate.

The Haa Chimi said the compensation paid for land acquired by the government from the people is very low and appealed that the compensation be increased for the welfare of the common people.

The Bumthang Chimi requested the House to revise the land compensation to Nu. 10,000 - 15,000.

The House decided that until the end of the 9th five-year plan there will be no changes in the compensation rate for land acquired by the government.

On the acquisition of land, the Chang and Kawang Chimis submitted that according to the decision of the 176th session of the Lhengye Zhungtshog, if the government acquires land from individuals who do not own land besides the one acquired by the government, they should be given substitute land compensation.

However, if the individuals whose land has been acquired by the government, own land in other parts of the kingdom, the government need not compensate them by providing them with land. They can be paid cash compensation.

The Prime Minister Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said a committee should be formed to study the matter. The committee will submit their findings to the next National Assembly session.

The House decided that a committee would be formed as requested by the Prime Minister. It was decided that the committee would include the town Chimi. The report of the committee will be submitted to the 83rd session of the National Assembly.

Allowance for Goendeys and Gomdeys

The National Assembly also discussed the need for providing ration and vegetable allowance for Goendeys and Gomdeys on Friday, 23rd July.

The Bumthang Chimi said there is a need to consider providing Tofo-thoblam for Goendeys and Gomdeys since they are involved in promoting the Buddha Dharma.

He said only those institutions, which are not supported by individuals or groups of individuals could be provided the allowance.

Chimis from various parts of the kingdom said Lams and Lopons are involved in promoting and propagating the Buddha Dharma. They provide service and fulfill the religious needs of the people especially in the villages.

The House resolved that the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs together with the Central Monastic Body will look into the matter.

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Assembly discuss promotion of cash crop market

The National Assembly held extensive discussions on promoting cash crop market on Monday, 26th July

The Bumthang Chimi said that the government should consider establishing additional auction yards to promote the cash crop market in the country.

Chimis submitted that since 80% of the population depends on agriculture as their main source of income, there is a need to promote the market for cash crops.

Some Chimis said taking cash crops to the auction yards in Samdrupjongkhar and Phuntsholing takes time. Farmers also have to wait two to three days for their products to be auctioned resulting in their products getting spoilt and losing market value.

The Minister of Agriculture, Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup, said the ministry has been working towards developing agriculture market in the country by constructing farm and feeder roads. This, he said, will give farmers access to markets.

Lyonpo informed the House that the ministry has also established a cold storage in Paro with a capacity of 50 metric tons. An apple-grading machine is also available at the storage.

The ministry has also established two storage facilities for maize in Pemagatshel and Mongar.

He said it is important to maintain the quality of the products to meet international standards and compete in the International market as Bhutan is in the process of accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The Agriculture Minister said there is a need to establish more agricultural centers and auction yards.

He said the ministry is in the process of carrying out a feasibility study.

The House resolved that the construction of additional auction and storage space will be considered after a detailed study is carried out.

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Discussions on Purchase of excess land and construction of house on wetland

The National Assembly also saw extensive deliberation on the purchase of excess land on Monday, 26th July.

The Thimphu Municipality Chimi said some villages falling under the extended boundary of the Thimphu municipality have not been allowed to purchase their excess land.

He said while some villages have been allowed to buy their excess land others have not been and requested the house to allow the people who have not been allowed to buy their excess land to do so.

Some Chimis said it is important to resolve the issue since the same problem might occur in other dzongkhags.

The Minister of Works and Human Settlements, Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji, said people who were not allowed to buy their excess land were those whose land had fallen under the urban town development plan.

He said the issue has been discussed by the Council of Ministers and the City Committee, following which the City Corporation was instructed to deal with the issue according to the Land Act 1979 and the Municipal Act 1999, though the area was included within the Thimphu Urban Boundary since 1994.

The House resolved that the Department of Land Records, the City Corporation and the Ministry of Works and Human Settlements will carry out a study as to who will be eligible for the purchase of excess land.

The matter will then be put up to the Lhengye Zhungtshog.

The National Assembly also discussed the construction of houses on wetland and orchards.

The Mewang Chimi said it is difficult to find dry land in the western region and requested the House to allow the people to construct houses on their wetland and orchards.

After requests from Chimis for clarifications on the issue, the Minister of Agriculture, Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup read out the clause of the Land Act dealing with the construction of houses on wetlands.

According to the Land Act, no one is allowed to construct houses on wetlands and orchards except for those who only own wetland and orchards.

It was decided that the issue would be discussed in the next session of the National Assembly.

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Assembly discuss establishment of Committee to maintain and restore religious places and artefacts

The National Assembly on Wednesday, 28th July, discussed the establishment of a committee to look after the maintenance and renovation of Dzongs and Monasteries.

The representative from the Central Monastic Body proposed the need for a committee to formulate and process the requirements for the renovation and maintenance of Dzongs, Monasteries and religious artifacts in the Dzongkhags.

The Committee, consisting of members from the Dzongkhags, Dratshang and the DYT, should also be responsible to oversee the budget and the fund aloocated.

The Minister of Home and Cultural Affairs, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said matters related to the renovation and maintenance of the country’s cultural heritage were handed over to the dzongkhags since 1998.

Lyonpo agreed to the proposal submitted and said the proposed committee should work with the dzongkhags and the Dratshang. This he said will ensure proper implementation of the work.

The Chimis also raised concern on who would monitor the funds allocated for different renovation and restoration works.

The Yangbi Lopen said there is a need for a committee to look after such affairs, so that the age-old religious and cultural heritage of the country is preserved and safeguarded.

The Speaker, Dasho Ugyen Dorji said that a manual to oversee the budgetary and financial matters for the restoration and renovation of religious places be drafted.

The House resolved that till the manual is in place, the Dzongkhag administration along with the Dratshang will look after the funds allocated for renovation works. financial matters for the restoration and renovation of religious places be drafted.

The House resolved that till the manual is in place, the Dzongkhag administration along with the Dratshang will look after the funds allocated for renovation works.

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National Assembly discuss establishment of new gewogs

The National Assembly on Wednesday, 28th July, also discussed the need to establish new gewogs in Mongar.

The Mongar Chimi submitted that both Drametse and Mongar gewogs have over 500 households, with large scattered settlement. This, he said, hinders the implementation of development activities in the Gewogs.

The Chimi requested the House, if Drametse gewog, could be bifurcated into a separate gewog with Narang village as a new gewog.

The village located at about four hours walk from Mongar has around 200 households.

The Chimi also proposed the separation of Mongar into two gewogs with a new gewog as Wengkhar.

The Mongar Dzongda said the separation would facilitate the planning and implementation of development activities.

The Minister of Home and Cultural Affairs, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said that, bifurcations and separation of gewogs are being done depending on the nature of the settlement.

Lyonpo also pointed out that the problem is not only confined to one Dzongkhag.

He added that a thorough discussion needs to be carried out taking into the account the infrastructure as well as administrative and socio-economic benefit of the people.

The House resolved that a proper discussion will be carried out by the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs on the proposal.

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Amendment to Moveable and Immoveable Property Act & additional clause to the Biodiversity Act

Following the discussion on the creation of new gewogs, the National Assembly made amendment to the Moveable and Immoveable Property Act 1999.

The Chairman of the Legislative Committee said that section 19, of Chapter 2, of the Moveable and Immoveable Act 1999 needs to be amended as per the decision of the 80th National Assembly session.

The House resolved that henceforth, the amended clause mentioned in the Act will be followed.

The House also saw the need to include an additional clause to the Biodiversity Act of Bhutan.

The Minister of Agriculture, Lyonpo Sangay Ngedup said that the Biodiversity Act was enacted during the 81st session of the National Assembly.

However, following several meetings on the Act, it was found that an additional clause, giving the Ministry the right to frame draft rules of procedures was needed in the Act. He said the lack of the clause creates problems in implementing the Act.

In view of this, the Ministry had proposed this to the Council of Ministers. The amended Biodiversity Act has been forwarded to the Legislative Committee for review.

The House resolved that the amended Act giving the Ministry the right to frame draft rules of procedures will be put up to the next session of the National Assembly.

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Assembly discuss Tenancy Act 2004

The much awaited Tenancy Act of the kingdom of Bhutan 2004 saw extensive deliberations in the National Assembly on Thursday, 29th July.

The act was drafted in 2000 by the Department of Legal Affiars as per the direction of the Council of Ministers.

The 21-page Act contains 9 chapters including tenancy authority, rent, rights and duties and fine and penalty among others.

The draft Act was presented to the House by the Minister for Works and Human Settlement Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji.

Most of the Chimis said that generally, land in Bhutan is registered under Zhingsa, which includes all agricultural land. They said that the term non-agricultural land should be either deleted or changed.

The Chukha chimi said the duration and the amount of the monthly rent for rental unit and for the leased land should be fixed and mentioned in the Act.

The chairman of the Legislative Committee said this should be discussed between the owner and the tenant and then reflected in the agreement.

The House also held extensive discussion on the payment of rent for the rental unit. One of the section states that the tenant shall pay the rent on or before the fifth day of the following month.

The Chimis requested the house to extend the duration from five to ten days or to remove the article.

The Chimis said there are many people living in far away places who do not receive their monthly income on time to pay the rent as required. The chimis said this applies to people working with the private companies as well.

The Chimis submitted that if it could be decided by the parties involved and included in the agreement. The chairman of the Legislative Committee said building owners usually take loans from the financial institutions and have to repay the installments on time.

The Tashi Yangtse Dzongda said the rent fixation should be left upto the market forces.

The House also saw much discussion on the section 10 of the Act. Under the section, house owners shall not increase the rent before two years from the day on which a new tenant occupies the house. It also says that the increment of rent shall not exceed 10%of the monthly rent.

The Chimis requested the house to increase the duration of increasing the rent from 2 years to either 5 to 10 years. They also requested for a reduction in the percentage from 10% to 3 – 5%.

They expressed concern at the increment of 10% of the monthly rent after every 2 years and the income is to remain the same.

The chairman of the Legislative Committee said that once the Tenancy Act is passed it would benefit the tenants immensely.

He said at the moment tenants are at the mercy of house owners, some of whom increase the rents almost by 100% every year, and sometimes even in 6 months.

The House will continue discussions on the Tenancy Act on Monday, 2nd August.

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National Assembly Committees Act 2004 discussed

The National Assembly on Friday, 30th July, discussed and adopted the National Assembly Committees Act of Bhutan 2004.

Presenting the Act to the House, the chairperson of the Legislative Committee said the act was drafted in accordance with His Majesty’s policy of decentralization.

The Act will provide for the establishment of the committee, which will deliberate, inquire, investigate, review and legislate on any important matters that are referred to them.

The Act has 11 chapters with sections on the establishment and responsibilities of Legislative, standing and public Accounts Committees and various other joint and sub committees.

The Act also has provision for power to take evidence, call for documents, and send for person and other related matters.

The members deliberated extensively on the establishment and responsibilities of legislative and public Accounts Committees.

The Bumthang Chimi submitted that changes are required in section 3 of Chapter 2 of the Act.

It states that the legislative affairs committee shall be established by issuing a standing order or by resolution of the National Assembly on the motion raised by the members.

He said the establishment of the committee should be first discussed in the National Assembly and based on the resolution of the National Assembly, the Speaker should issue a standing order.

The House resolved to change the sentence as required by the members and adopted the Act.

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National Assembly pass Tenancy Act and the Road Act

The National Assembly on Monday, 2nd August, continued discussions on the draft Tenancy Act of the kingdom of Bhutan 2004.

On Thursday, 29th July, the House saw extensive deliberations on section 5 of chapter III of the Act. The members also deliberated extensively on section 10 of chapter IV, which talks about the revision of rent.

The 21-page Act contains 9 chapters including tenancy authority, rent, rights and duties and fine and penalty among others. The House passed the draft Act after two days of extensive deliberations.

The National Assembly also discussed the draft Road Act of the kingdom of Bhutan 2004.
Presenting the Act, the Minister of Works and Human Settlements, Lyonpo Kinzang Dorji said the draft act once passed will define and establish a safe and efficient system of road network in the kingdom.

It will also set the authority and the responsibility of specific bodies at all levels of government with regard to road communication. It will, among others, provide the basis for enforcement of rules to prevent damage to roads.

The 21-page draft Road Act 2004 has 8 chapters including the administration of roads, technical standards, financing of roads and enforcement, penalties and settlement of disputes among others.

The draft Road Act of the Kingdom of the Bhutan 2004 was endorsed by the House.

The National Assembly is scheduled to discuss the Speaker’s Act of the National Assembly of Bhutan 2004 on Tuesday, 3rd August.

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Two-thirds majority to enact the Speaker’s Act of 2004

The National Assembly on Tuesday, 3rd August, saw extensive deliberations on the enactment of the Speaker’s Act of the National Assembly of Bhutan 2004.

The Prime Minister Lyonpo Jigme Thinley submitted that the Lhengye Zhungtshog had discussed the enactment of the Speaker’s Act 2004 extensively. The Prime Minister submitted that the enactment of the new chathrim be postponed.

Cabinet ministers submitted in the House that the new Speaker’s Act of 2004 was not necessary as the 1996 Speaker’s Act was already existent and also because, the new Act would be repealed when the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan was passed.

The Chimis of Punakha, Haa, Wangduephodrang, Mongar and the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the Speaker’s Act of the National Assembly of Bhutan 1996 should be dissolved.

The Chimis added that it was necessary to ratify the new Speaker’s Act because it was not sure when the Constitution which is being drafted would come through.

Lyonpo Jigme Thinley however said that since most of the Chimis welcomed the enactment of the new chathrim, the decision to adopt the new chathrim should be made according to the mandate of the 1996 Chathrim.

The 1996 Chathrim states that the decision to enact a new act should be backed by a two-third majority.

The Speaker acknowledged the Prime Minister’s submission that a two third majority is necessary for the enactment of the act.

The members of the National Assembly then cast their votes to decide the enactment of the Speaker’s Act of the National Assembly of Bhutan 2004.

The Speaker’s Act of 2004 says a Speaker’s term will be for 5 years and is eligible to serve for a maximum of 2 consecutive terms.

The Speaker’s Act of 2004 will be discussed in the National Assembly on Wednesday, 4th August.

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Discussions continue on the Speaker’s Act 2004

The National Assembly on Wednesday, 4th August, discussed the Speaker’s Act of the National Assembly of Bhutan 2004.

The 13 pages Speaker’s Act 2004 contains 13 sections.

The members of the House discussed the act extensively on Wednesday. During the three hour-long session, the House focused on the nomination for the Speaker and the eligibility criteria.

Discussing the nomination of the Speaker, most Chimis submitted that the National Assembly should elect the Speaker from among its elected members.

The House resolved that the National Assembly Speaker would be elected from among its elected members as submitted by the Chimis.

After submissions from cabinet ministers, Dzongdas and Chimis, it was resolved that the eligibility criteria would also include proficiency in Dzongkha and English.

The National Assembly also discussed the election procedure. The House resolved that the election of the Speaker of the House would have a minimum of 2 nominees in the election.

The National Assembly will discuss the remaining sections of the Chathrim on Thursday, 5th August.

In the current session, the House has so far enacted 3 Acts including the National Assembly Committees Act, the Tenancy Act and the Road Act.

After the deliberations on the Speaker’s Act, the National Assembly will discuss the Bhutan Penal Code, 2004.

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Speaker’s Act 2004 under extensive discussion

The National Assembly on Thursday, 5th August saw extensive discussions on the oath of allegiance, term of office, code of conduct, functions and responsibilities, and power and status of the Speaker.

The section of the Act on the code of conduct provides that the Speaker shall not hold any office or employment in the royal government and not engage in any other employment or gainful activity, other than those that are already in ones control.

During the discussions on the above provision, Cabinet ministers submitted that the provision should be changed to “not engage in any other employment or gainful activity.”

Most of the Chimis however submitted in favor of maintaining the part of the provision that allows those activities that are already in one’s control.

The Speaker, Dasho Ugyen Dorji said that the Lhengye Zhungtshog Chathrim of 1999 does not have similar code of conduct in its provision.

While the House endorsed the code of conduct in the Speaker’s Act of 2004, it was decided that the Lhengye Zhungtshog Chathrim of 1999 would be reviewed by a committee consisting of representatives from the National Assembly, the Judiciary and the Department of Legal Affairs and submitted to the National Assembly.

The Speaker said, once the code of conduct for the Lhengye Zhungtshog was endorsed by the National Assembly, the same would then apply to the Speaker also.

The House agreed on the term of the Speaker as 5 years. It was also agreed that the Speaker will serve a maximum of 2 full terms.

On the power and status of the Speaker, the cabinet ministers submitted that the Speaker should not delegate any power or authority to other members of the House.

The cabinet ministers said the Speaker should bestow his power only to the Deputy Speaker or the Secretary General.

The House resolved that the Speaker shall delegate power and authority only to the Deputy Speaker or the Secretary General.

The House will discuss the role and functions of the Deputy Speaker on Friday, 6th August. It will be followed by discussions on the Bhutan Penal Code of 2004.

On Wednesday, 4th August, the members of the House discussed the act extensively on Wednesday. During the three hour-long session, the House focused on the nomination for the Speaker and the eligibility criteria.

Discussing the nomination of the Speaker, most Chimis submitted that the National Assembly should elect the Speaker from among its elected members.

The House resolved that the National Assembly Speaker would be elected from among its elected members as submitted by the Chimis.

After submissions from cabinet ministers, Dzongdas and Chimis, it was resolved that the eligibility criteria would also include proficiency in Dzongkha and English.

The National Assembly also discussed the election procedure. The House resolved that the election of the Speaker of the House would have a minimum of 2 nominees in the election.

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Assembly discuss election procedures for Deputy Speaker

The National Assembly continued discussions on the Speaker’s Act of the National Assembly of Bhutan, 2004 on Friday, 6th August.

The House resolved that the election procedure for the Deputy Speaker would be the same as that of the Speaker. Candidates for the post of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker will be from the elected members of the National Assembly.

The House decided that the Deputy Speaker shall continue to represent his constituency as a member. However the term of the Deputy Speaker will automatically end once his or her term as a member of the National Assembly expires.

The Deputy Speaker will be entitled to salary, allowances, privileges and other entitlements at par with the government Secretary.

The Speaker Dasho Ugyen Dorji said the Speaker’ Act 2004 had been discussed extensively by the House for more than three days.

The Speaker thanked the National Assembly members for thoroughly deliberating and passing the important Act.

The National Assembly then opened discussions on the Bhutan Penal Code, 2004.

The Chief Justice Lyonpo Sonam Tobgay attended the session as a special guest of the National Assembly.

The Bhutan Penal Code 2004 has 35 chapters and is 68 pages long. The Chief Justice outlined the background, objectives and the benefits of the Bhutan Penal Code, 2004.

The National Assembly members were also given a copy of the Kasho from His Majesty the King abolishing capital punishment in the kingdom.

Members of the House expressed their gratitude to His Majesty the King for the abolition of capital punishment.

The House will resume on Monday, 9th August with discussions on the Bhutan Penal Code, 2004.

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Bhutan Penal Code 2004 being discussed

The National Assembly today resumed discussions on the Bhutan Penal Code 2004.

The Prime Minister, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley expressed the gratitude of the Lhengye Zhungtshog and the government to His Majesty the King for abolishing capital punishment in the kingdom.

The House deliberated on prison terms for various felonies, misdemeanor and petty misdemeanor and the power of the Drangpoen on reducing or increasing the prison term.

The Chief Justice, Lyonpo Sonam Tobgay, who attended the national assembly as a special guest said that the prison term is based on the offences that the defendant has committed.

On the issue of enhancing the punishment of the defendant who commits the same offence twice, the Bumthang Chimi inquired why the defendant should be given an enhanced punishment on the next conviction.

The Chairman of the Legislative Committee explained that a defendant found guilty of the same offence on the next conviction, is convicted, so that the defendant does not commit the same crime again.

The House also held extensive deliberations on Chapter 11, 13 and Chapter 14 of the Bhutan Penal Code on Homicide, Kidnapping and related offences and Sexual offences.

On the issue of illegal abortion, the bill states “a defendant shall be guilty of illegal abortion, if the defendant unlawfully aborts or induces expulsion of an embryo or foetus or prevents a child from being born alive, …”

The Prime Minister said that the level of punishment should also take into consideration, if the parents consent to the abortion due to infectious diseases, if it is detected that the baby is deformed, or if it is not going to survive.

He said that in such a case, the clause should specify on the right to undergo abortion. The House decided to make the addition on the clause.

On the illegal selling or buying of human organs, the Prime Minister, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley pointed out that with many new diseases and illnesses emerging, there are many people who are in need of organs.

The Prime Minister said that if giving an organ can save a life, then the person should not be guilty of the act.

The Punakha Chimi said that there is no harm in donating organs as long as it is done in consultation with medical officials, and it is for the purpose of saving life.

He however added that a medical person could also be illegally selling organs without the knowledge of the patients.

The Foreign Minister, Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk also said that it is important to consider if the organ is being donated to save a life.

But he said that if there is no law to check it, there might be instances when human organs from the country are sold outside and becomes a business.

The Chief Justice, Lyonpo Sonam Tobgay said that it is firstly necessary to understand whether the person is selling under compulsion, for money or whether it is being done without ones knowledge.

He also said that the punishment is only for offenders who have sold or bought the organ illegally.

The Prime Minister said that it should be specified properly as to when the selling and buying of human organs can be treated as a crime.

The Speaker said that a patient should undergo thorough medical check up to see whether they are in need of the organs.

The House also deliberated on the Crime of Euthanasia. The Prime Minister said the House had to discuss the crime of Euthanasia.

The draft Penal Code states “a defendant shall be guilty of the offence of crime of euthanasia, if the defendant puts the persons suffering from incurable and distressing disease to death as an act of mercy”.

With differing points of view on the subject the House resolved that a committee from the judiciary will study and work out different clauses for the crime of Euthanasia.

The issue will then be discussed in the 83rd session of the National Assembly. The House will resume on Tuesday with discussions on Chapter 14 of the Bhutan Penal Code, which deals with sexual offences.

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Discussions continue on draft Bhutan Penal Code 2004

The National Assembly on Tuesday, 10th August, continued discussions on the draft Bhutan Penal Code 2004.

On the issue of grading of rape, the Prime Minister, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley submitted to the House on Monday, 9th August, that sexual offences should carry a heavier punishment.

The Draft Bhutan Penal Code 2004 states that the offence of rape shall be a felony of the fourth degree.

Some of the Chimis also submitted that for sexual offences, the defendants should be classified as a felony of the third degree.

Felony of the fourth degree carries a sentence of minimum 3 years and maximum of less than 5 years.

A felony of the third degree carries a sentence of minimum 5 years and a maximum of less than 9 years.

After much deliberation, the house decided that the offence of rape shall remain as a felony of the fourth degree.

The Samtse Chimi said that rape of pregnant woman should carry a comparatively heavier punishment as the offense affects both the pregnant mother as well as the unborn child.

The Prime Minister also submitted the need to incorporate an additional clause of non-divulgence of the victim’s identity in case of rape. The House decided to include the clause submitted by the Prime Minister.

The House also saw extensive deliberations on marital rape. The clause on marital rape states “a defendant shall be guilty of marital rape, if the defendant engages in sexual intercourse with one’s own spouse without the consent or against the will of the other spouse”.

Some Chimis felt that there was no need for the section dealing with marital rape.

The Punakha Chimi said if the section on marital rape is not included in the Penal Code, it might be difficult to address the issue if such cases should arise in the future.

The Speaker, Dasho Ugyen Dorji, said that the section on marital rape would remain in the Bhutan Penal Code.

The National Assembly members also felt that the section on Incest needed clarification.
It states, “a defendant shall be guilty of the offence of Incest, if the defendant engages in sexual intercourse or any other sexual conduct with a person to whom the defendant is related by consanguinity or affinity in such a way that they cannot legally marry except otherwise provided in other laws”.

The Chief Justice Lyonpo Sonam Tobgay who attended the national assembly as a special guest submitted that the Judiciary has come up with a General Rules of Interpretation, which gives a detailed clarification on the matter.

He said that the General Rules of Interpretation would be submitted to the next session of the National Assembly.

On the Abettor of mutiny, the Mongar Chimi said that the section only mentions the "Tengsung" or the Royal Bhutan Army. He felt that all the three armed forces should be included in the section.

Responding to this, the Chairman of the Legislative Committee said that though the section specifically mentions “Tensung” it includes all the armed forces in the country.

The House however added that instead of “Tensung” the word “Drakma” would be used in the section.

The House also debated on Chapter 24 of the draft Bhutan Penal Code, which deals with offences against cultural and national heritage.

The members deliberated extensively on the illegal purchase or sale of Ku, Sung, Thuk-ten or Zung, grading of the illegal purchase or sale, illegal gifts of Ku, Sung, Thuk-ten or Zung, grading of the illegal gift and on the caretaker’s negligence causing loss or larceny of the religious artifacts.

On the illegal purchase or sale of the Ku, Sung, Thukten or Zung they said that the degree of punishment should be justified since there are people who are not aware of the consequences of indulging in the illegal buying or selling of antiques.

On the caretaker’s negligence causing loss or larceny of religious artifacts, the Home and Cultural Affairs Minister said that the punishment for such offences should be lowered as it was felt that there would be no one to take up the post of the caretaker if the offence carried a heavy punishment.

The Home and Cultural Affairs Minister, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley also submitted to the House though the people who sell or buy religious artifacts within the country would be classified as offenders, the degree of penalty should be less compared to those who sell artifacts outside the country.

The House will deliberate further on the offences against cultural and national heritage on Wednesday, 11th August.

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Bhutan Penal Code 2004 passed

The National Assembly continued deliberations on the draft Bhutan Penal Code 2004 for the third day on Wednesday, 11th August.

After much deliberations on Chapter 24 of the draft Penal Code, which deals with offences against cultural and national heritage, the House resolved that a defendant who is guilty of illegal purchase or sale of religious artifacts whether outside or within the country, will be liable to the same degree of punishment.

The House also deliberated on Chapter 25, which deals with offences against judicial authority.

There was extensive debate on contempt of court and the grading of the offence.

The section in the code states, “a defendant shall be guilty of the offence of contempt of court, if the defendant purposely interferes with or interrupts a legal proceeding including a failure to respond to a court directed inquiry, makes a public outburst, an antagonistic comment or directs a threat at a judicial official or person present in the courtroom or engages in acts demonstrating a lack of Driglam Namzha befitting the court”.

Chimis submitted that it would be better to exclude the part, as they felt that at certain times, the Drangpoen could charge a person, who is not guilty, on grounds of Driglam Namzha.

The Chief Justice, Lyonpo Sonam Tobgay who attended the deliberations as a special guest of the national assembly, said that the section is not new and is enshrined in the laws of other countries as well.

The Chief Justice apprised the house of the necessity of such a clause, as there had been instances in the past when defendants had misbehaved in the Courtroom and even made public outbursts. The Chief Justice said the clause was necessary to uphold the sanctity of the court.

The Chimis also inquired, whether the Drangpoens are covered by the rules of the Royal Civil Service Commission Chathrim or by a separate set of rules.

The Chief Justice informed the House that based on the decisions of the 81st National Assembly, a separate National Judiciary Commission has been established. The Drangpoen’s Service Rules cover matters related to penalty, transfer and appointment of Drangpoens.

The House then deliberated on Chapter 26 of the Penal Code that deals with Prostitution and related offences.

The Prime Minister, Lyonpo Jigme Thinley submitted that till now prostitution is seen as a crime. He said it is important to decide whether prostitution should be legalized or not. Lyonpo Jigme Thinley said tough measures had failed to curb prostitution in many countries in the world.

The Chief Justice said that though prostitution is legal in many countries, in a small country like Bhutan it should not be, as it might be difficult to control the increase in number in the near future.

He also said that in the past, commercial sex workers who had been caught were sent back to their homes by the Court. The Chief Justice added that since this did not help in stopping prostitution, there was a need to classify it as an offence and graded as a misdemeanour.

The House resolved that prostitution would be graded as a misdemeanour. However, the House decided that if it doesn’t help in stopping prostitution, necessary amendments would be made in the Chapter.

On the issue of Illegal sale of alcohol, the Prime Minister pointed out that it was necessary to add a phrase “certain places, schools and institutions” in the section.

The Section states, “a defendant shall be guilty of the offence of illegal sale of alcohol, if the defendant illegally sells or serves an alcoholic beverage to a child or on prohibited days”. The House decided to incorporate the addition.

On Chapter 31, which deals with Computer Offences, the Minister of Information and Communication, Lyonpo Leki Dorji said that the title “Computer Offences” is not sufficient to cover all offences related to Internet and Information Technology.

He added that the Chapter also doesn’t include certain clauses, which are needed to deal with offences related to tampering with websites, hacking, emails and Internet related issues.

Lyonpo requested the House if this Chapter could be discussed during the next session of the National Assembly with the submission of the draft Chathrim on Information and Communication.

The House resolved to deliberate on the issue, in the 83rd session of the National Assembly.

On the grading of illegal transaction of controlled substances, the draft Penal Code states that the offence of illegal transaction of controlled substances shall be a felony of the fourth degree.

The Chairman of the Legislative Committee said that the offence should be sentenced as a felony of the second degree. The Prime Minister supported the submission.

The House decided that the offence of illegal transaction of controlled substances shall be a felony of the second degree.

Felony of the second degree carries a sentence term of imprisonment a minimum of which shall be 9 years and a maximum of less that 15 years.

On the Illegal sale and use of harmful substances, the Deputy Minister of the National Environment Commission, Dasho Nado Rinchen appealed to the House to include hazardous waste and ozone depleting substances.

The House decided that since the terms were too technical, the NEC and the Judiciary would work on addition.

After three and a half days of extensive deliberation, the National Assembly passed the Bhutan Penal Code 2004.

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Ratification of International Conventions, Agreement and Protocol

The National Assembly ratified four international conventions and an agreement on Thursday, 12th August.

The session began with a brief introduction on the agreement between the Royal Government and the Government of the USA regarding the surrender of person to the International Criminal Court.

The agreement says when the US extradites, surrenders or otherwise transfers a person of Bhutan to a third country, the United States will not agree to the surrender or transfer of that person to the international criminal court by the third country, absent the express consent of the Royal Government and vice versa. The agreement was signed at Washington DC in May 2003.

The World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control was also ratified.

The Minister of Health Lyonpo Dr. Jigme Singye informed the House that there are over 5 million tobacco related deaths in the world every year.

Of that 1million are found in South Asia. The Minister also highlighted activities carried out by health sector in the Kingdom to reduce the use tobacco and its products.

The Chimis submitted that all the 20 Dzongkhags should ban the sale of tobacco and be declared tobacco free. They also said that confiscated tobacco product should be destroyed or burnt.

The Minister of Trade and Industry Lyonpo Yeshey Zimba said it would difficult to ban the sale of tobacco completely. He however, said that it can be controlled by levying heavy taxes.

The Minister of Finance Lyonpo Wangdi Norbu expressed concern that a complete ban could lead to black marketing. The House was also informed that the confiscated tobacco products are being auctioned.

The House considering the ill effects of tobacco on people’s health and the environment heard that it should be banned in all the dzongkhags.

The Speaker Dasho Ugyen Dorji said even the tax on tobacco products has to be increased to 100%.

The National Assembly also ratified the Additional Protocol to the SAARC Regional Convention on the Suppression of Terrorism.

The Foreign Minister Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk informed the House that the convention already exists. Lyonpo said the additional protocol was prepared as mandated by the SAARC Council of Ministers during the 23rd session in Katmandu in August 2002.

The Foreign Minister said the additional protocol is expected to strengthen the SAARC Regional Convention on Suppression of Terrorism. The convention criminalizes the provision, collection or acquisition of funds for the purpose of committing terrorist acts.

Lyonpo added that it will also take further measures to prevent and suppress financing of such acts.

The House also ratified the Berne Convention for the protection of Literary and Artistic Works.

The Minister of Trade and Industry Lyonpo Yeshey Zimba highlighted the importance of the convention. The Trade and Industry Minister said that Bhutan has a Copyright Act, which is applicable only within the kingdom.

With the ratification of the convention, a person’s literary and artistic works will be protected against infringement by others.

The House also endorsed the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and Montreal Protocol on Substances that deplete the Ozone Layer including its four amendments.

The Deputy Minister of the National Environment Commission Dasho Nado Rinchen briefed the House on the articles and convention and the protocol.

Dasho Nado Rinchen also highlighted advantages of being a party to the convention.

Following the ratifications, the Speaker informed the House that election of the Deputy Speaker and the members of the Legislative Committee and Public Accounts Committee would be held on Monday, 16th August.

The members are to submit the names of the nominees for the post to the Secretariat by Friday, 13th August.

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People Representatives express gratitude

The National Assembly members expressed appreciation to His Majesty the King for the continued peace and prosperity enjoyed by the Bhutanese people.

Chimis from all the dzongkhags expressed appreciation and gratitude to His Majesty the King for removing the Indian insurgents from Bhutanese soil.

The Chimis said that after all peaceful means were exhausted, the government had to resort to military action.

The members of the National Assembly also expressed appreciation for undertaking major development activities, the decentralization process and the waiving off of rural taxes for the year 2004.

The Chimis from the 20 Dzongkhags expressed their profound gratitude to His Majesty the King and the royal government for removing the ULFA, NDFB and KLO militants in a short span of time.

The Chimis said that the problem had been repeatedly discussed in the earlier sessions of the National Assembly extensively. The members also expressed heartfelt gratitude to His Majesty the King under whose dynamic leadership, peace and normalcy were restored in the country.

Chimis expressed their appreciation to His Holiness the Je Khenpo, the Zhung Dratshang, Gomdeys, and Rabdeys for performing Kurims.

Chimis also expressed the gratitude to Her Majesty the Queen Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck for the construction 108 Druk Wang Gyel Chortens as a token of gratitude to His majesty the King.

The National Assembly members expressed their gratitude to His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Dasho Jigme Kheser Namgyel Wangchuck for running the government at the time of great threat to the country.

The Chimis expressed their appreciation to the armed forces and the militia volunteers for serving the country with utmost loyalty and dedication.

The members also expressed deep condolences to the families of the armed forces personnel who laid down their lives while protecting the security and sovereignty of the country.

Cabinet Ministers also expressed their gratitude to His Majesty the King, His Holiness the Je Khenpo and the armed forces and the militia volunteers.

Dozin Batoo Tshering expressed the gratitude to the Government of India for their support during the military operation last year.

Members of the House also expressed their gratitude to the Government of India for financing major development activities in the Kingdom.

Chimis also expressed their gratitude to His Majesty the King for implementing the decentralization policy.

On the waiving of the rural taxes for the year 2004, the Chimis of Tashigang, Wangduephodrang, Tsirang, Zhemgang, Trongsa and Thimphu expressed their gratitude to His Majesty the King.

The Zhemgang Chimi said that the 65-kilometer Gomphu-Panbang road will benefit the people of Zhemgang immensely.

The people of Chukha thanked the royal government for widening the Thimphu-Phuentsholing highway.

The people of Tashiyangtse expressed their appreciation to His Holiness the Je Khenpo for introducing Meonlam Chenmo at the Chorten Kora in 2003.

On Monday, The National Assembly will elect the Deputy Speaker and the members of the Legislative Committee and Public Accounts Committee.

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Election of Deputy Speaker

The National Assembly elected the Deputy Speaker and the members of the Legislative Committee and the Public Accounts Committee on Monday, 16th August.

The elections began with the reading of the election rules and regulations by the National Assembly Secretary.

The Speaker, Dasho Ugyen Dorji also informed the House that since 6 of the members were not present, the total number of voters would be 144. However, those nominated to stand for election would not cast votes.

9 candidates contested the election for the Deputy Speaker. A total of 135 votes were cast.

The Chimi of the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Zhamling Dorji was elected as the Deputy Speaker. He secured 31 votes.

His closest contest was Tsheten from Trashiyangtse, 22 votes, followed by Jamphel from Bumthang with 19 votes.

The Deputy Speaker will perform the duties of the Chair in absence of the Speaker. The Deputy Speaker will at the same time continue to represent his constituency as a member.

Following the election of the Deputy Speaker, the House elected the members of the Legislative Committee.

A total of 132 members cast their votes for the 12 nominees who contested the election. 5 were elected as the Legislative Committee members.

There was a tie between the candidates from Lhuntse and Tashiyangtse. Both, Deki Pelzom from Lhuntse and Lobzang Dorji from Trashiyangtse secured 12 votes each. However in the second round, the Tashiyangtse candidate secured higher.

The five elected members of the Legislative Committee are, Namgay Phuentsho from Punakha, Jamphel from Bumthang, Pema Dorji from Mongar, Yonten Thinley from Samdrup Jongkhar and Lobzang Tshering of Trashiyangtse.

The Legislative Committee members will be responsible for reviewing all Bills and draft acts to be submitted to the National Assembly. This is expected to speed up the enactment of Bills at the National Assembly.

The House then cast votes to elect members of the Public Accounts Committee. 10 candidates contested the election, out of which 5 were elected.

They are Dorji Wangchuk from Ura, Bumthang, Ngawang Jamyang Dorji from Mongar, Wangdi from Paro, Sangay Khandu from Samtse and Sigay from Wangduephodrang.

A total of 134 members cast their votes. The candidate from Bumthang, secured the highest, with 34 votes.

The Mongar candidate obtained 20 votes, Paro 18, followed closely by the Samtse candidate who got 17 votes. The Wangdi candidate secured 13 votes.
The Public Accounts Committee members will scrutinize the accounts and audit related issues and submit reports to the National Assembly.

The 82nd session of the National Assembly is scheduled to conclude on Tuesday, 17th August.

The session, which ran for over a month and a half discussed major development activities in the country, border talks and the punishment of people who extended assistance to the armed militants, among others.

The House also held lengthy deliberations on the Speaker’s Act 2004 and the Bhutan Penal Code 2004.

The session enacted 5 Acts (The National Assembly Committees Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan 2004, The Tenancy Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan 2004, the Road Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan 2004, the Speaker’s Act of the National Assembly of Bhutan 2004 and the Bhutan Penal Code 2004), and ratified 5 International Conventions.

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82nd National Assembly session concludes

The nation’s highest legislative body, the National Assembly, concluded its 82nd session on Tuesday, 17th August.

His Majesty the King attended the closing ceremony of the 82nd session.

Also present were His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Dasho Jigme Geser Namgyel Wangchuck and His Royal Highness, Dasho Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck.

After the resolutions of the current session were read, the National Assembly Speaker, Dasho Ugyen Dorji said that the current session has been successful.

The Speaker expressed his gratitude to His Majesty the King for leading the nation through unprecedented socio-economic development, and for safeguarding the sovereignty of the country.

He expressed gratitude of the Assembly members to Her Majesty the Queen, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck for the construction of the 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens at Dochula pass.

The Druk Wangyel Chortens were built as an expression of gratitude and tribute to the selfless service and visionary leadership of His Majesty the King.

The Speaker also expressed gratitude to His Holiness the Je Khenpo and the Monk Body for performing nationwide Kurims and Moenlam Chenmo for the peace and prosperity of the nation.

The House also expressed appreciation to the Government of India for its assistance in various development activities.

The Speaker welcomed the elected members of the Legislative Committee and Public Accounts Committee and the Deputy Speaker.

He expressed hope that they would carry out their responsibilities in accordance with the Chathrim and ensure the fulfillment of Gross National Happiness.

The 82nd National Assembly session concluded with the offering of Tashi Moenlam to His Majesty the King.

Following the closing ceremony, His Majesty the King, Their Majesties the Queens, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, Ashi Tshering Pem Wangchuck and Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuck, and the royal family members hosted a luncheon for the Assembly members.

Students from the Royal Academy of Performing Arts (RAPA) and the Institute of Language and Cultural Studies (ILCS), Semtokha also performed a cultural show.

The 82nd session of the National Assembly, which began on the 28th of June, lasted for over a month and a half.

The session, discussed major development activities in the country, border talks and punishment of people who extended assistance to the armed militants among others.

The House also held lengthy deliberations on the Speaker’s Act 2004 and the Bhutan Penal Code 2004.

The House has decided that from next year, the National Assembly will hold two sessions in a year. The sessions to be held in spring and autumn, will last for two-weeks each.

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