Kathmandu, April 22: Nepal has established a national law to secure Dalit rights, but now Lumbini Province has taken a significant step by passing a bill aimed at improving the lives and welfare of the Dalit community. This makes it the first province in the country to do so.
The new initiative in Lumbini Province emphasizes essential services such as housing, healthcare, and education specifically for Dalits.
In addition to Lumbini, Nepal comprises six other provinces: Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki, Karnali, and Sudurpashchim. According to the constitution, provincial and local governments can create their laws, provided they do not conflict with national legislation.
The bill includes provisions for housing arrangements for Dalit families. It also offers hostel facilities for economically disadvantaged Dalit students pursuing higher education. Furthermore, it prioritizes Dalit students in hostels at government, private, and community schools and universities.
Under this bill, impoverished Dalit citizens will receive free treatment for serious illnesses, as determined by the provincial government. Additionally, it provides subsidies, discounts, and low-interest loans for preserving, advancing, and modernizing traditional Dalit occupations through machinery, tools, and raw materials.
Social Development Minister Janmajay Timilsina presented this proposal in the assembly, where it received unanimous approval from all members.
Minister Timilsina stated that this initiative will strengthen the human rights and social justice of the Dalit community. It will also enhance their participation at all levels of government, allowing them to engage in policy-making and implementation, ensuring equal access to economic resources and opportunities.
Lokmani Pandey, spokesperson for the Lumbini Provincial Assembly, mentioned that the bill will become law once it receives the governor’s approval. He highlighted that it includes various facilities for the Dalit community.
According to the 2021 census, Dalits make up 14.30 percent of Lumbini Province’s total population. Nationwide, this community constitutes approximately 13.44 percent, representing nearly 30 million people.
The new government, led by Prime Minister Balendra Shah, announced on March 30 as part of its 100-day action plan that it would publicly apologize to the Dalit community for historical injustices and initiate reform-oriented programs to address these issues.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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