KATHMANDU, March 21: Women, Children, and Senior Citizens Minister Nawal Kishor Shah Sudi announced that 775 Chhaupadi huts have been demolished in various districts of Karnali and Sudurpaschim to eradicate the Chhaupadi tradition.
Speaking during a discussion on a proposal related to dignified menstruation at the National Assembly on Friday, Minister Sudi provided details of the initiative. According to him, the demolished huts include one in Jajarkot, 15 in Kalikot, 297 in Surkhet, 20 in Bajhang, 69 in Kailali, 168 in Bajura, and 221 in Achham, totaling 775 huts.
Perhaps the new generation can be free from menstrual taboos
Minister Sudi also stated that efforts are underway to bring those who build or use Chhaupadi huts under legal scrutiny. He emphasized the government's commitment to prioritizing campaigns against Chhaupadi and violence against women through community-police partnerships. The Ministry has prepared a draft of the Dignified Menstruation Directive, aimed at eliminating discrimination, exploitation, and injustice during menstruation, and fostering a well-informed society.
The government is coordinating with local, provincial, and national authorities to enforce the laws and raise awareness through shared campaigns to end harmful practices related to menstruation. Minister Sudi further added that efforts to eliminate Chhaupadi and menstruation-related discrimination are being actively pursued as part of a broader initiative to create an inclusive and respectful society.
