Nepal Government Plans to Resettle Squatters in Their Native Districts

The government of Nepal has announced plans to resettle squatters in their native districts, rather than providing them with permanent housing in the capital city of Kathmandu.

According to a statement released by the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation, the government has identified 14 individuals who will be resettled in their native districts. The statement did not provide further details on the resettlement plan or the criteria used to select the individuals.

One of the individuals identified for resettlement is Kumar Ghale, a 46-year-old man who has been living in a squatter settlement in Kathmandu for over 20 years. Ghale told reporters that he was informed of the government’s decision through a phone call from the local authorities, and that he was not given any prior notice or consultation.

Ghale expressed concerns about the resettlement plan, citing the lack of job opportunities and basic amenities in his native district. He also worried about the impact on his children’s education, as they are currently studying in Kathmandu.

Another individual identified for resettlement is Som Bahadur Nepali, who has been living in a squatter settlement in Kathmandu for over 17 years. Nepali told reporters that he was not informed of the government’s decision and that he was not given any prior notice or consultation.

Nepali expressed concerns about the resettlement plan, citing the lack of clarity on the location and conditions of the resettlement. He also worried about the impact on his family’s livelihood, as they are currently dependent on him for financial support.

Concerns Over Resettlement Plan

The resettlement plan has been met with concerns from various stakeholders, including human rights groups and community leaders. They argue that the plan is not a sustainable solution to the problem of squatters in Kathmandu and that it may lead to further displacement and marginalization of the affected communities.

The Nepal Women’s Unity Society has also expressed concerns over the resettlement plan, citing the lack of consultation and transparency in the decision-making process. The organization has called on the government to reconsider the plan and to engage in meaningful consultation with the affected communities.