Bagmati Province Chief Minister Stresses Effective Implementation of Federal Republic Rights

Kathmandu. Bagmati Province Chief Minister Indra Bahadur Baniya stated that although the federal democratic republic has ensured rights for all citizens, emphasis must be placed on its effective implementation.

Speaking today at the inauguration ceremony of the 11th National General Convention of the Nepal Federation of Indigenous Nationalities here, he emphasized that while the republic has granted rights to all communities, castes, genders, and classes, politics should be based on humanity, not on caste or religion.

He noted that federalism is a system based on identity along with inclusive representation, expressing the view that fulfilling duties is a greater challenge than merely demanding rights.

"If rights are granted but not implemented, they are meaningless," he said, "Identity and inclusivity are for preserving culture and existence, not for division."

He mentioned that the constitution has already ensured inclusive proportional representation, stating that the focus should now shift from the fight for rights to the management of duties.

He suggested that the recent political changes and the rise of the new generation could also be interpreted as a sign of shortcomings in fulfilling responsibilities. Chief Minister Baniya highlighted the necessity of the will to implement and the right mindset at the leadership level.

He stated that indigenous nationalities, Madhesi, and Muslim communities have already achieved their rights, and it is now everyone's responsibility to effectively utilize those rights and work for the benefit of the communities.

On the occasion of the 11th convention today, indigenous nationality organizations also organized a rally with cultural processions under the slogan, 'Ensure Indigenous Peoples' Rights Over Natural Resources, Water, Land, and Forests.'

Federation President Gelje Lama Sherpa informed that the new leadership of the Federation will be elected on the second day of the two-day convention, Friday.