Violation of human rights

The Himalayan Times

29 August 2019

Violation of human rights

It seems that Nepal in these days is gradually losing its goodwill image in the international arena in many aspects. It is sliding further down every year in Corruption Perception Index, now ranking 124th among 175 countries as per Transparency International report. There seems to be continuous increase in human rights and gender violence against women and children as reported in media. Rape cases against girls and women continue to rise, and culprits are reported to be freely wandering around.  The government seems to be incapable of arresting the high-profile corrupt people, gold smugglers and other state law violators.

The comprehensive peace agreement signed on November 21, 2006 between the government and the then Nepal Communist Party (Maoist) called for political, economic and social change in the country and adherence to humanitarian law and human rights principles. The agreement also called for the election of a constituent assembly to end the transition period and called on the UN to observe and assist the electoral process. It has been now almost 13 years since the peace accord took place, but the TRC is yet to complete their assignment, gradually losing its values and importance. 

Nepal was elected member of the United Nations Human Rights Council for the first time since UNHRC’s creation in 2006. With this, Nepal has many obligations to fulfill as one of the member states. However, reading this news “Nepal violated human rights: UNHRC” (THT, August 28, Page 2), Nepal seems to be deviated from its commitments. If the victims have to knock UNHRC’s door for justice, what is the NHRC doing for the welfare of the victims. Or is it the government undermining NHRC’s role?  It is unfortunate that the UNHRC has asked Nepal to report back within 180 days about the victim’s plight.

Rai Biren Bangdel

Maharajgunj