Entrepreneur Min Bahadur Gurung has stressed the importance of moving forward responsibly despite recent protests that caused significant damage to his businesses. He shared his views on Monday during a program organized on the occasion of Tax Day, where he was recognized as an outstanding taxpayer.
Gurung stated that during the JeNJi protests on Bhadra 23 and 24, 12 of his Bhatbhateni stores were completely destroyed, and many others suffered heavy damage. Despite the losses, he said he has not lost courage and is determined to continue his work. He noted that many goods stocked for Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath festivals were looted or burned during the protests.
He emphasized his sense of responsibility, given the thousands of youths dependent on him and the investments banks have made in his business, saying:
“The massive JeNJi movement on Bhadra 23–24 overturned power in just two days, where previously such changes took 15–20 years. We all need to take this seriously. If we are not responsible, another movement will occur—and no Bhatbhateni, no one’s investment will survive. Intrusions during this protest caused enormous losses. Even though I had stocked items for Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath, I still have the courage to move forward because I have responsibilities, bank investments, and thousands of brothers and sisters associated with me. The root cause of these movements is our poverty, and lack of responsibility also contributes to them.”
Gurung added that attacks on his stores were linked to political parties’ intentions to build office buildings on his properties. He clarified that after paying taxes, it is his personal choice to donate money, citing examples of his charitable contributions:
- Built a children’s hospital under the leadership of Dr. Bhagwan Koirala.
- Sponsored MBBS education for underprivileged and talented students.
- Provided support to teaching hospitals.
“I give, I don’t take. I had even prepared for a hospital inauguration this Mangsir, but the protests delayed it. Millions in Nepal receive support—this is not new. I give to underprivileged children from various districts. I have helped teaching hospitals and provided buildings. It’s my personal decision. I always say I will help all parties if they reform. Originally, it seemed like just a party issue, now it’s JeNJi. I gave to 10 people personally so that others wouldn’t need to ask—this is why I am bearing this loss. I give, I do not take.”
Gurung has previously faced criticism for offering land and arrangements for an office building for the CPN-UML. He defended his stance, saying that after paying taxes, he has the personal right to contribute and that businessmen should not hold grudges. Gurung highlighted that he, coming from Khotang, has been able to provide employment for thousands, and encouraged others to do the same. He also remarked that Nepal has many opportunities for growth and development.
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