Army Seeks Squatter Data in Bardiya, Udaypur Amidst Public Criticism

Kathmandu. Following the removal of squatter settlements in Thapathali, Manohara, and Gaihrigaun in Kathmandu, details of squatters are now being collected in other districts as well. The army's public request for squatter data in districts like Bardiya and Udaypur has drawn criticism from the public.

The army was also present during the removal of the squatter settlement in Thapathali on Baisakh 12. However, at that time, it claimed its presence was merely a 'coincidence' as it was en route with logistical supplies.

The responsibility for solving the squatter problem and managing settlements falls under the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation and the Ministry of Urban Development. However, the army has requested details of squatter settlements and their residents from local bodies in districts such as Bardiya and Udaypur.

Major Bolendra Karki of Bajradal Battalion in Banke has written to eight local bodies in Bardiya requesting updated details regarding disorganized squatter settlements. The Pashupati Prasad Battalion in Udaypur has also written to the Land Problem Resolution Commission office in Udaypur seeking squatter data. Major Pramod Adhikari of Pashupati Prasad Battalion wrote to the Land Problem Resolution Commission Udaypur on Baisakh 14, requesting the details be provided promptly.

Army spokesperson (Assistant Chief of Staff) Rajaram Basnet claimed that the data was requested as a preparedness measure for potential disasters, specifically for those living along riverbanks. Speaking to RatoPati, Basnet stated, "Data from areas prone to disaster has been requested for disaster preparedness."

Assistant Chief of Staff Basnet mentioned that the army has played an active role in disaster response in the past, adding, "Updated data has been collected considering the impact of past disasters."

Assistant Chief of Staff Basnet explained that this updated data would facilitate mapping for future disaster rescue operations.

Regarding the criticism on social media about the army's involvement in squatter management, Basnet stated, "We will not go beyond our constitutionally defined responsibilities."

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