Nepal's Democratic Norms Under Threat Amid Controversial Evictions

Prominent Nepalese citizens have accused Prime Minister Balendra Shah's government of adopting authoritarian practices, violating democratic norms and constitutional rights amid a demolition drive in Kathmandu Valley. The forced evictions of landless settlers have drawn criticism, highlighting issues like housing rights, press freedom, and reliance on ordinances.

Amid a controversial demolition drive in Kathmandu Valley, over two dozen prominent Nepalese citizens have accused Prime Minister Balendra Shah's government of undermining democratic values and violating constitutional provisions. The mass evictions of residents from informal settlements have sparked allegations of authoritarianism and have resulted in severe backlash.

In a joint statement, 28 prominent individuals called for an immediate cessation of forced evictions, urging respect for constitutional guarantees and democratic processes. The government's operation, which saw the demolition of over 2,000 illegal structures, has drawn ire for its lack of consideration for landless settlers.

The critics have highlighted the use of armed security forces, restrictions on press freedom, and reliance on ordinances, as raising serious constitutional and legal questions. They warn that such actions undermine democratic governance and call for a halt to autocratic practices that risk concentrating power within a single political entity.