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KATHMANDU, June 5: Although there are policy arrangements to end caste-based discrimination and untouchability, stakeholders have pointed out a lack of genuine commitment. Recognizing the contribution of the Dalit community to Nepal’s state transformation, the then Interim Parliament declared June 4, 2006 as the ‘Day for the Elimination of Caste-Based Discrimination and Untouchability.’
Even as this declaration approaches two decades, caste-based discrimination and untouchability have not been eliminated in reality. On the occasion of the National Day for the Elimination of Caste-Based Discrimination and Untouchability, the National Dalit Commission organized a dialogue program on Wednesday. During the dialogue, Dalit expert and writer Sushil BK stated that due to the absence of Dalit-focused policies and programs, the Elimination Day has become a day without meaningful preparation.
“In this period, a new constitution was made, and some Dalit-focused laws were also enacted. But when it comes to implementing the constitution and laws, Dalits have not seen the progress and development they had hoped for,” said BK. “Political parties, the judiciary, and even religious communities seem to act in ways that protect discrimination.”
He further stated that over 50 Dalits have lost their lives due to caste-based discrimination during this period. “Dalit homes have been bulldozed. This shows a mindset that aims to kill Dalits,” he said.
Say No to Racial, Caste Discrimination
Ekaraj Lakandri, general Secretary of the Dalit NGO Federation (DNF), said that the failure to seriously implement constitutional provisions for Dalit emancipation has led to the lack of expected progress in two decades.
Member of the House of Representatives Parbati Bisunkhe highlighted that despite living in the age of technology, the Dalit community continues to be trapped in archaic systems, which is causing the nation to fall behind.
“At a time when the country should be advancing with technology, it has to struggle against caste-based obstacles,” she said. She pointed out that even a decade after the constitution was promulgated by the Constituent Assembly, the expected progress in eliminating caste-based discrimination and untouchability has not been achieved due to a lack of genuine commitment from state authorities.
“Just making policies does not end untouchability. Programs based on these policies have not been implemented properly. Until there is a change in commitment, Nepali society will not move forward smoothly,” she said.
Nepali Congress Vice-Chairman Jiwan Pariyar said that although the issue of caste-based untouchability is government-backed, the verdicts have been weak. “It was unfortunate that the Jajarkot incident was ruled as not caused by untouchability,” he said. He added that there has been no initiative from government lawyers in such cases.
Attorney General Ramesh Badal noted that there could have been shortcomings on the part of the judge while evaluating evidence in the Jajarkot case. He mentioned that discussions have taken place on this issue and that further study and appeal will follow.
National Assembly Chairperson Narayan Prasad Dahal emphasized that the participation of the Dalit community is essential for stronger laws and policies to eliminate caste-based discrimination.
Devraj Bishwakarma, chairperson of the Dalit Commission, emphasized the need for open discussions to end caste-based discrimination.
