On August 30, 2024, a discussion was held in Birendranagar, Surkhet, bringing together key stakeholders to deliberate on the “Bill Aimed at Empowering the Dalit Community and Enhancing Their Living Standards.”
Organized by Hriti Foundation in collaboration with UNDP/PSP and the Social Development Committee of the Karnali Provincial Assembly, the event served as a platform for 20 participants, including CSO representatives, journalists, MPs, and activists, to review and provide feedback on the proposed legislation.
The discussion highlighted several key areas for improvement in the bill, particularly regarding its scope and effectiveness. Participants emphasized the need to include provisions for a dedicated Dalit Development Committee and suggested focusing on empowerment, capacity building, and income generation to uplift the Dalit community.
Concerns were also raised about the monitoring mechanism proposed in the bill, with suggestions to streamline it in line with existing federal laws. The event concluded with significant commitments from key figures, including Hon. Kal Bahadur Hamal and former MP Raju Nepali, who pledged to advance the bill through parliamentary sessions and ensure its enactment.
This interaction underscored the importance of inclusive and comprehensive legislation that addresses the diverse needs of marginalized communities. The feedback collected will be provided to the Social Development Committee.
During the discussion, Mr. Upendra BK, a Lecturer at the Department of International Relations and Diplomacy at Mid-West University, provided an expert review of the bill using the “Three Column” or “Tin Mahale” approach.
