The HRW said this in its World Report 2012 released in New York on Sunday. It also blamed that government and political parties have weakened an already ‘dysfunctional’ justice system by ignoring court orders and appointing people allegedly guilty of serious rights violations to senior government positions. [break]
In Nepal, no one from the security forces or among the Maoists has been held criminally responsible for abuses during the conflict, and many of the accused have been protected by the security forces or political parties, HRW said.
On the government decision to grant blanket amnesty those implicated in human rights violations during insurgency, the HRW said the proposed withdrawals and amnesties are prohibited under international law and standards, adding such acts would also violate the coutry’s apex court order.
It also stated that though the draft bills to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission and a Disappearances Commission are a step toward justice for war victims, several provisions in it are inconsistent with international law.
The HRW, however, hailed the integration and rehabilitation package for former CPN-M combatants but described the government refusal to extend the mandate of the office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights office as a ‘disturbing development.
“The refusal to extend the mandate of the UN human rights field office is a major step backward and calls into question the commitment of the main political parties in the government and opposition to protect the rights of Nepalis,” Adams said.
The HRW has also drawn attention to Dalit discrimination in the country but described the government announcement about the passage of a Caste-based Discrimination and Untouchability Bill as a positive move.
In its 676-page report, the HRW has assessed progress on human rights during the past year in more than 90 countries, including popular uprisings in the Arab world.
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