KATHMANDU, April 24 : Security has been tightened at the central office of the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) in Banasthali as squatters and affected residents gather to protest the government’s eviction drive.
The demonstrators including landless settlers have reached the party office to pressure the ruling party not to proceed with the removal of informal settlements. Earlier in the morning, they staged protests in Thapathali against the decision.
Leaders parroting old promises to woo squatter votes
During election campaigns, RSP Chair Rabi Lamichhane had pledged to stand against forced evictions, even saying he would “stand in front of bulldozers” if necessary.
Protesters have demanded an end to what they describe as “bulldozer terror” and called for the protection of housing rights. Several Gen Z activists and concerned stakeholders also joined the demonstrations in Thapathali.
Police had already made public announcements on Thursday evening, urging residents of informal settlements in Thapathali, Shankhamul, Shantinagar, and the Manohara area to vacate.
Meanwhile, police have taken Narayan Parishrami, chair of the United National Landless Squatters Front, into custody.
