Former PM Bhattarai Expresses Hope and Fear Over Squatter Resettlement

Kathmandu. Former Prime Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai has said that while there is a little hope, fear, terror, and dread were seen when the government led by Balen observed the squatter settlements in Kathmandu.

Dr. Bhattarai said this on Friday through a video after personally observing the Thapathali, Sinamangal, and Manahara areas of Bhaktapur, where the government first used bulldozers, on Thursday.

He said that he, along with former minister Hisila Yami, met and talked with squatters kept in the Radhaswami Holding Center in Kirtipur and some hotels and lodges near the New Buspark, and then observed the squatter resettlement apartments constructed in Ichangunarayan, Nagarjun during his own tenure.

Briefly sharing his experiences after observing the demolished settlements and talking with the squatters kept there, Bhattarai said, 'Upon reaching the squatter settlements and talking with some of the remaining people, a hope that this government might do something was seen, while on the other hand, serious suspicion and fear were also observed.'

He said that it is not 'sweet' to see panic among the poor and laborers in urban areas when a new government has just been formed, as it signifies a loss of faith in the state. He mentioned that some women, in a fearful tone during their meeting with him, expressed the understanding that registering their names would lead to the loss of their property.

'Sad scenes were also seen where belongings could not be retrieved because the shacks were demolished with short notice,' Bhattarai said, 'The government must be clear on whether to use bulldozers first or to resettle. ' He also said that resettlement is prioritized worldwide, 'Secondly, land acquisition and beautification should take place. Squatters should be demolished only after making arrangements for resettlement,' Bhattarai said regarding the issue of squatters in the remaining areas, adding, 'Whatever has happened so far, let it be.'