Dalit Network objects demolition of Badi people's huts

The National Dalit Network Nepal has objected to the demolition of Badi people's huts along the road at Chaukidanda of Godawari Municipality-3 in Kailali district.

The Network claimed that demolishing more than 500 huts and houses of Badi people by the forest office has violated Dalit's fundamental rights to land and safe housing enshrined in Article 40 (5) and (6) of Constitution of Nepal. The forest office dismantled the huts and houses on Monday.

Issuing a press release on Wednesday, the Network reminded that it is the State's responsibility to respect, protect and fulfill citizen's human rights. The government has been demanded to find a solution to the problems along with alternative shelter, the press release added.

The Network further said the police, forest employees and local forest users' group dismantled the huts with the coordination of Godawari Municipality, District Administration Office, and Forest Division Office, Dhangadhi.

The Badi people shared the plight that they were in dire straits with the removal of shelter. It was sheer injustice meted out by the government to them, they added.