Caste bias continues to deny Dalits housing in Kathmandu

Despite constitutional guarantees against caste discrimination, many Dalits in Nepal continue to face exclusion and humiliation while searching for rental housing in Kathmandu. The problem persists not only for ordinary citizens but even for former lawmakers and ministers.

Former proportional lawmaker and former state minister Bimala BK recalled the difficulties she faced after arriving in Kathmandu following the 2017 elections. Although she had earned a seat in Parliament, she struggled to find a room to rent in the capital. House owners frequently asked about her caste before agreeing to rent out rooms. Once they learned she belonged to the Dalit community, many would avoid giving a direct refusal but later stop responding.