Fiscal Nepal
First Business News Portal in English from Nepal
PM Balen
KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Balen Shah has assured that the government will soon distribute land to genuine squatters, urging them to remain confident as authorities move forward with clearing informal settlements in the capital.
In a statement posted on social media, the Prime Minister said the government is committed to resolving the long-standing issue of landless squatters through a structured process.
“We will complete the necessary procedures and distribute land to genuine squatters across the country as soon as possible,” Shah stated, adding that his government aims to deliver a permanent solution to the decades-old problem.
The assurance comes at a time when the government has intensified efforts to clear squatter settlements in various parts of Kathmandu, with demolition preparations underway from Saturday.
Addressing concerns surrounding the eviction drive, Shah said the move is also aimed at preventing potential disasters during the upcoming monsoon season.
“Should we continue waiting for a major disaster to occur?” he questioned, criticizing past practices of leaving vulnerable communities in high-risk areas for political gains related to rights and votes.
He emphasized the need to relocate squatters to safer locations rather than allowing them to remain in flood-prone and unmanaged settlements.
“Is it appropriate to manage them in safer areas, or to keep them in uncertainty for years as has been done before?” Shah said, arguing that safe and planned resettlement is a fundamental right of citizens.
The government’s ongoing eviction campaign has sparked debate, with questions being raised over immediate rehabilitation plans. Meanwhile, affected squatters have begun protests against the displacement, demanding proper alternatives before eviction.
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