KATHMANDU: As the government led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah completes 100 days in office, concerns have been raised over the growing hardship faced by poor and vulnerable communities.
Critics and affected groups say some people facing difficulties involving state agencies have been pushed into extreme distress, with recent incidents of deaths and self-harm attempts highlighting concerns over the protection of marginalized citizens.
On May 1, 61-year-old Indra Bahadur Rai was found dead in the Bagmati River after his riverside settlement was demolished. His family and neighbors said Rai had left his hut in distress after authorities moved to demolish the structure.
Similarly, 25-year-old Ganesh Nepali from Mugu, who had been working in a ride-sharing service in Kathmandu, died on Friday while undergoing treatment after attempting to set himself on fire outside the Department of Passports in Tripureshwor.
Relatives have alleged that Nepali was unable to continue his livelihood after his motorcycle was wheel locked by Kathmandu Metropolitan City police through a wheel lock. Authorities have said the incident is under investigation.
Displaced families face uncertainty
Many families identified as landless squatters and relocated to holding centers in Kathmandu Valley after demolition drives in April are now facing uncertainty.
The government had said the settlements would be screened and that genuine landless families would be provided alternative arrangements. However, with the onset of the monsoon, authorities have asked people to leave the temporary holding centers.
Some displaced families have reported difficulties accessing food and basic services. They say the situation of elderly people, new mothers, people with chronic illnesses and school-going children has become increasingly challenging.
The National Human Rights Commission of Nepal issued a statement on Thursday urging the government to ensure that the human rights of landless and vulnerable communities are not compromised.
The commission called for measures to address the concerns of affected families while ensuring their basic rights and dignity.
