Civil Society Leaders Warn Against Potential Curtailment of Rights in Constitution Amendment

Kathmandu. Civil society leaders have urged vigilance, warning that the ongoing constitution amendment process poses a risk of curtailing citizens' rights.

During a program organized by the Democratic NGO Federation on Wednesday titled 'The Role, Accountability, and Transparency of NGOs for Social Justice,' speakers emphasized the need to remain alert as the government moves forward with constitutional amendments that could potentially infringe upon fundamental rights.

Leaders expressed concerns that rights related to freedom, equality, justice, women, Dalits, children, social justice, and social security could be compromised under the guise of constitutional reform. The 'Constitution Amendment Discussion Paper Preparation Task Force-2082,' formed under the coordination of Asim Shah, Chief Political Advisor to Prime Minister Balendra Shah, has already commenced its work.

Women's rights activist Krishna Kumari Waiba stated that constitutional amendments should be used to strengthen women's rights. Advocate Krishna Neupane emphasized the need for full implementation of the constitution. Rights activist Narayan Giri demanded that the right to 'freedom to form unions and associations' mentioned in Article 17 of the constitution remain unchanged during the amendment process.

Child NGO Federation President Bijay Lama requested the government to ensure the full practical implementation of children's rights as stated in Article 39 of the constitution. Democratic NGO Federation President Dilliram Giri stressed that all rights activists must unite to protect the constitutional rights of citizens.