Protests Against Government Erupt in Jhapa-5 Just Two Months After Election
April 21, Biratnagar – Just one month after the formation of the government led by Balendra Shah (Balen) elected from his own constituency, protests against the government have begun in Jhapa-5. On Monday, landless and squatters residing in Kamal Rural Municipality within Jhapa-5 staged a demonstration. Voters from Prime Minister Shah’s electoral area have taken to the streets demanding a halt to the use of bulldozers in squatter settlements, a move that has also affected similar communities in Kathmandu and other parts of the country. The protest was organized under the leadership of the Land Rights and Workers’ Organization. The demonstration culminated in presenting a memorandum at the rural municipality office. Protesters vocally opposed the government’s use of bulldozers to demolish homes in squatter settlements, displacing impoverished families. They demanded recognition of their right to housing and insisted that no settlements should be removed without alternative arrangements. Earlier, similar protests by squatters have taken place in Dharan, Pathari, and other areas.
Following the protests nationwide by squatters opposing government preparations, Prime Minister Balen, on the same day, defended his administration by affirming that permanent measures have been initiated to ensure housing rights and resolve the issues related to the clearing of these settlements. Through a post on Facebook, he stated: ‘‘The Government of Nepal wants to clarify that all measures taken are not intended to evict citizens forcibly but to ensure housing rights by providing permanent solutions to the issue.’’ He urged all citizens not to be misled, to remain calm, and to avoid spreading unverified information.
Prime Minister Balen further explained that the repeal of certain clauses of the Land Act 2071 (2014) via ordinance was necessary, considering current circumstances, as these clauses were obstructing the implementation of long-term solutions. With legal barriers removed, the government has commenced digital data collection, verification, and official recording of genuine landless citizens based on clear criteria.