INSEC Welcomes Government Commitment to Address Historical Injustice Against Dalit Communities

Kathmandu. The Informal Sector Service Centre (INSEC) has expressed gratitude for the newly formed government's commitment to issue a formal apology for the injustices and discrimination faced by Dalit and historically marginalized communities. The government's 100-day action plan, unveiled on 2082 Chaitra 16, includes a pledge to announce reform-oriented programs alongside a formal apology within 15 days.

INSEC stated that this state acknowledgment of communities subjected to structural discrimination and exclusion for years is a positive step toward social justice and historical reconciliation. Noting that past commitments have often remained ineffective due to a lack of implementation, INSEC has urged the government to ensure concrete and time-bound execution this time.

INSEC demands that the formal apology should not be limited to symbolic gestures but must be linked to policy, legal, and institutional reforms. The government's attention has also been drawn to the need for a clear action plan and adequate budget allocation to ensure access to education, health, employment, and justice for the Dalit community.

INSEC has put forward a demand to amend the Caste-Based Discrimination and Untouchability (Offence and Punishment) Act, 2068, to extend the statute of limitations for filing complaints beyond the current three months. It emphasized the need to create an environment where police are mandated to register complaints of caste-based discrimination, ensure punishment for perpetrators, and provide full reparations to victims. Furthermore, it has urged the withdrawal of reservations and interpretive declarations made by Nepal while ratifying the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, 1965, arguing that they contradict the spirit of the Constitution.

INSEC has suggested that the government accept the jurisdiction allowing citizens to file individual complaints with the international committee against racial discrimination, as per the convention's articles. Stating that social justice and inclusivity must be reflected in practice rather than just in declarations, INSEC Chairperson Bijay Raj Gautam reminded the government to fully comply with international human rights commitments. Additionally, a call has been made to collaborate with civil society, human rights activists, and stakeholders to implement these commitments.