New rules tilt balance towards lower house in constitutional amendments

Amendments can now be passed on the basis of a combined two-thirds majority of both houses instead of separate two-thirds majority in each.

The House of Representatives on May 31 passed its new rules of procedure, the House of Representatives Rules, despite fierce opposition from rival parties. As opposition lawmakers scuffled with ruling party members and parliamentary marshals in the well of the House, Speaker DP Aryal, surrounded by marshals, put the rules to a vote.