Kathmandu, Oct. 7 -- After a video surfaced showing Hami Nepal founder Sudan Gurung speaking at a meeting of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA), an debate started.

Beyond questions about Gurung's eligibility to attend the meeting or allegations that he issued directives to government officials, there has been another much-asked question. How can bodies outside the government, such as non-profit groups, NGOs, INGOs, and volunteer groups, participate in disaster management meetings?

Even after Home Minister Om Prakash Aryal clarified that Gurung was invited for his experience and expertise in disaster response, and that he had offered suggestions, not instructions, criticism persists.

Many continue to ...