From Eviction to Dignity

The government's decision to clear public land in the Kathmandu Valley of illegally settled squatter communities may have fulfilled a long-standing administrative responsibility. However, that effort loses much of its legitimacy if it is not accompanied by a humane and well-planned rehabilitation programme for the families displaced by the evictions. While the government acted with notable efficiency in removing informal settlements, it has shown far less urgency in addressing the plight of those left without homes. Families evicted from various parts of the Valley not only lost their shelters but have also been forced to live in temporary holding centres for months. At the time of the eviction, the government pledged to ensure their permanent resettlement within a short period. That promise, however, has remained largely unfulfilled. Adequate housing has not been provided, nor have the displaced been assured access to education, healthcare or livelihood opportunities. Even more troubling are reports that authorities are now pressuring these families to vacate the holding centres by offering only meagre financial assistance, leaving many with no option but to return to the streets. The displaced have accused the government of inhumane treatment and have warned of launching protests if their concerns continue to be ignored.