Bidushi Rana Clarifies Her Intent Following Criticism over Proportional Representation Seat

Kathmandu. Bidushi Rana, the owner of Goldstar shoes whose name was included in the proportional representation (PR) list of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), has clarified her objectives following public criticism. She stated that her intent is to enter Parliament to raise an experienced voice on issues regarding industry, employment, and the economy.

While singer Trishala Gurung, young entrepreneur Sachin Dhakal, and media personality Asif Shah announced the withdrawal of their names following criticism, Rana took to social media to state that she views proportional representation as a responsibility rather than a right. She mentioned that her goal is not personal political ambition but to work for the benefit of the nation and society through her industrial experience.

Rana wrote, "My identity is not politics; it is linked with industry, production, and labor. I have been associated with Goldstar shoes for over a decade, an industry with more than 55 years of history. Through this industry, 3,000–4,000 women have received direct employment today, and three to four times that many families are indirectly connected to it for their income and livelihood."

She also mentioned that she has been continuously raising challenges faced by the industrial sector, such as policy delays, the tax system, trade policy, transportation, exports, financial access, and labor issues. Rana accepted the responsibility after Mayor Balendra Shah urged for an experienced voice on industry, employment, and economy to be taken to Parliament.

Bidushi Rana expressed her belief that, in accordance with the spirit of inclusive representation ensured by the 2072 B.S Constitution, the equal participation of both men and women in the industry and production sectors is essential. She clarified that her priority is not a position or authority but the issues and their continuity, stating she is ready to hand over the responsibility in the future if necessary.

Rana claims that her main objective is to advance issues of domestic production, import substitution, export promotion, skill development, meaningful employment, and the economic empowerment of women in Parliament.