Congress MP Criticizes Government's Treatment of Landless and Squatters

Kathmandu. In the National Assembly, the Nepali Congress stated that the government is treating landless and squatters like criminals. In the National Assembly meeting on Monday, Congress MP Durga Gurung said that the government has not shown sensitivity to the problems of farmers and squatters.  

MP Gurung also drew the government's attention to the displacement of squatters and unorganized settlers happening across the country. She argued that demolishing houses with bulldozers without providing alternative arrangements is not befitting a democratic state. Reminding that the constitution guarantees every citizen the right to live with dignity and the right to housing, she said, 'Solutions are not sought, dialogue is not held, and rehabilitation arrangements are not made before the bulldozers run. Pain is seen only after the houses are demolished, this situation is extremely sad.'

Gurung stated that especially single women, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and children are becoming homeless, which is seriously affecting their education and health.

 'Children are not able to attend regular school, their books, notebooks, and study environment have been destroyed,' Gurung said, 'Is this social justice? Is development possible only by demolishing the houses of the poor?'

She demanded that the government should not treat landless and squatters like criminals and should find a solution to the problem through dialogue and legal process.  

She emphasized the need to quickly resume children's education, provide health services to the sick and the elderly, and manage land by identifying genuine landless individuals.  

MP Gurung warned against playing politics with the future of children and demanded that the government conduct an impartial investigation into any incident, bring the culprits to justice, and provide justice to the victims. She urged the government to prioritize social justice and the rule of law over the use of force.