Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Prem Bahadur Ale has said that Buddhist monks have made invaluable contributions in spreading the message of peace in the country and abroad.
Speaking at the 'World Peace Pranidhan Pooja' organized by the monks at Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha, he said that Buddhist monks have always been praying for peace in our country and that they should be respected by all.
Minister Ale urged the concerned parties not to treat the Buddhist monks who come to Lumbini for worship in a bad manner as they have been treated indecently by the security personnel and internal staff. He said, "Buddhist masters who identify Nepal as the land of peace should not be treated indecently. If someone is found to have done so, the government will take action against them. I urge everyone to respect the Buddhist masters."
Minister Ale assured that he and the ministry would extend all possible support for the development of the Lumbini region and added that the government would spare no effort for the development of Lumbini as it could attract millions of tourists. He claimed that after becoming a minister, he had taken action against various casinos and hotels for non-payment of royalties by operating casinos and had paid the royalties due to the government for years.
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