Nepali Congress leader Nain Singh Mahar urges government to address public grievances and democratic accountability

Kathmandu. Nepali Congress leader Nain Singh Mahar has urged the government to be responsible regarding the protection of rights, improvement of livelihoods, and the issues of squatters. Speaking at a program organized by the School of Democracy in Kathmandu to commemorate Democracy Day on 2063 Baishakh 11, Mahar recalled the historic People's Movement of 2063 and said, 'Today is the day when the moral strength of the people forced autocracy to bow down. Democracy is not just an achievement, but a continuous responsibility.'

According to him, although the democratic system has achieved institutional milestones, public expectations have not yet been fully addressed. He stated that the signs of shifts in political balance due to weakening public trust must be taken seriously.

Expressing concern over the growing centralization in state structures and the contraction of rights, Mahar clarified that the core essence of democracy lies in decentralization, participation, and accountability. Raising the issue of squatters and landless communities, he said, 'Displacement without sustainable management is a question on the sensitivity and justice of a democratic state.'

He remarked that the government's attention is insufficient, noting that livelihoods are becoming increasingly challenging due to rising inflation, unemployment, and weak service delivery.

Mahar urged the government to adopt fair and sustainable policies for the protection of rights, improvement of livelihoods, and sensitive groups including squatters, stating, 'If there is a delay in these matters, public trust in democracy may weaken.'

According to him, Democracy Day is not just a celebration, but also an opportunity for self-reflection and reform. 'The essence of democracy is accountability, inclusivity, and justice,' he emphasized.