The organization says the forced evictions reflect a dangerous erosion of the rule of law and point to a growing authoritarian outlook.
We use Google Cloud Translation Services. Google requires we provide the following disclaimer relating to use of this service:
This service may contain translations powered by Google. Google disclaims all warranties related to the translations, expressed or implied, including any warranties of accuracy, reliability, and any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and noninfringement.
Amnesty International has raised serious human rights concerns over reports of preparations to evict a slum in Kathmandu.
In a statement today, Amnesty said the forced evictions reflect a dangerous erosion of the rule of law. 'This reflects a growing authoritarian approach. The Balen government's policy roadmap promised to resolve the problems of landless communities within a set period,' the statement said. 'Evictions of families without prior verification, meaningful consultation or assurance of alternative housing undermine that commitment and risk turning a governance challenge into an easily avoidable human rights crisis.'
Citing media reports, Amnesty expressed concern that Prime Minister Balendra Shah had ordered security forces to evict hundreds of families from a slum, which is already at risk of becoming homeless.
Amnesty International Nepal Director Nirajan Thapaliya said, "The evictions, which are expected to take place within two days, reflect a clear disregard for Nepal's domestic and international human rights obligations and the rule of law." According to him, such steps are contrary to the government's commitment to resolving the landless squatter problem in a planned and humane manner.
The government is preparing to vacate the riverside squatter settlements in the Thapathali, Manohara and Sinamangal areas.
Amnesty has described forced evictions as a serious violation of the right to adequate housing. The organization says that any eviction carried out without due process, prior notice, alternative accommodation and meaningful consultation with the affected communities violates international human rights law.
Thapaliya warned that such steps would undermine the rule of law and signal authoritarian tendencies.
Amnesty has urged the government to immediately halt the eviction plans and to ensure that any future steps taken are in line with international standards. The organization has stressed the need for genuine consultation with the affected communities, adequate information, compensation and alternative housing.
Amnesty has reminded that under international human rights law, no one should be removed from their homes without due process and legal protection.
Despite constitutional protections, forced evictions have been recurring in recent years in Kathmandu, Kailali and Chitwan, leaving many families homeless and insecure, Amnesty said.
