Nepal’s Land Problem Resolution Committee Orders Families to Return to Permanent Addresses

A recent directive from Nepal’s Land Problem Resolution Committee has ordered several families to return to their permanent addresses, as stated in their citizenship documents.

The committee’s decision affects 16 families who were displaced and have been living in holding centers in Kathmandu. The families were told to return to their permanent addresses in various districts across the country.

However, experts argue that the government cannot force citizens to return to their permanent addresses, citing the constitution and laws that guarantee freedom of movement and residence. Senior advocate Raju Prasad Chapagain stated that the government cannot compel anyone to return to their permanent address, as it would be akin to deporting a foreign national.

The government’s decision has been criticized for not consulting with the affected families and for not providing adequate alternatives for their resettlement. The Land Problem Resolution Committee has been accused of not following due process and for not considering the rights of the displaced families.

Article 17 of the Nepalese Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of movement and residence, while Article 37 ensures the right to housing. The constitution also provides for the protection of the rights of landless and marginalized communities.

Land rights activists argue that the government’s decision is unjust and impractical, as it would deprive the displaced families of their right to livelihood and residence. They suggest that the government should provide alternative housing and livelihood opportunities for the affected families, rather than forcing them to return to their permanent addresses.

The issue has sparked controversy, with many questioning the government’s motives and the legality of the decision. The affected families have filed a petition with the district administration office, seeking the immediate withdrawal of the decision.