Amnesty International Urges Nepal to Halt Squatter Settlement Evictions

Kathmandu. International human rights organization Amnesty International has warned the government to immediately halt its plan to clear squatter settlements. Amnesty issued a statement regarding this on Friday.

Amnesty has expressed deep concern over media reports stating that Mayor Balendra Shah has directed security forces to clear informal settlements in Kathmandu, risking the displacement of hundreds of already marginalized individuals and families.

'These evictions, reportedly to be carried out within two days, demonstrate a blatant disregard for Nepal's domestic and international human rights obligations and the rule of law,' said Nirajan Thapaliya, Director of Amnesty International Nepal. 'Such actions would contradict the government's public commitment to address the long-standing issue of landless squatters through a planned, humane, and time-bound process.'

The government is preparing to remove squatters from three riverbank settlements in Thapathali, Manohara, and Sinamangal. The Kathmandu Metropolitan City had set a 24-hour deadline on Thursday evening to clear those areas.

'Forced evictions reflect a dangerous erosion of the rule of law and signal a growing authoritarian approach,' Amnesty stated. 'Evicting families without prior verification, meaningful consultation, or the assurance of alternative housing undermines that commitment and risks turning a governance challenge into an avoidable human rights crisis.'