A new report from Amnesty International has revealed serious human rights concerns in Nepal during 2023. The report highlights rising abuse by security forces, limits on free speech, and deep-rooted discrimination across the country. It warns that Nepal is facing increasing threats to civil rights and public safety.
Security Forces Accused of Using Excessive Force
Amnesty’s report shows that Nepal’s police and security forces used force against peaceful protesters. The government reportedly used strong tactics to stop people from criticizing leaders or policies. Authorities banned or disrupted public gatherings and arrested people during protests.
One shocking example came during a Hindu festival in Kathmandu. Police arrested three people for chanting anti-government slogans. They were held in jail for four days without proper legal reasons. Human rights groups say this is part of a growing trend of silencing voices of dissent.
Journalists and Activists Targeted
Amnesty International also raised alarms about attacks on free speech. Journalists, social media users, and civil rights activists faced more pressure in 2023. Between January and December, Freedom Forum recorded 57 incidents where people were threatened or harmed for speaking out. In many cases, local officials or political party members were behind these actions.
Female journalists were especially at risk. The report mentions cases of gender-based violence, showing the need for better safety for women in media. Amnesty says these attacks reduce press freedom and make it harder for people to stay informed.
Discrimination Remains a Big Problem
Nepal has laws against discrimination, but many people still suffer because of their caste, gender, or social status. Amnesty says Dalits—especially women and girls—face daily abuse and are often denied justice.
Even though Nepal bans caste-based discrimination, many crimes against Dalits go unpunished. This creates a culture of impunity, where offenders are not held accountable. As a result, victims are often afraid to report abuse.
Violence Against Women and Girls Continues
The report highlights ongoing violence against women and girls. Child marriage, forced labor, and the harmful practice of chhaupadi still happen, especially in rural areas. Chhaupadi is the custom of sending menstruating girls and women to sleep in huts away from their homes. This practice, though illegal, remains common and dangerous.
Police data shows over 16,000 cases of domestic violence between July 2023 and June 2024. Experts believe many more cases were not reported. Fear, social stigma, and lack of support systems keep many victims silent.
Setbacks in LGBTI Rights
Nepal made headlines in 2024 by registering three same-sex marriages. However, the report says these marriages did not come with full legal rights. This means couples were recognized in name only, without real benefits like inheritance, joint property, or spousal rights.
Amnesty urges the government to go beyond symbolic acts and make sure LGBTI people get equal treatment under the law.
Right to Housing Under Threat
Hundreds of families living in informal settlements were at risk of being evicted in 2023. Many of them are landless people, Dalits, and marginalized groups. These forced evictions happened without proper legal process or resettlement plans.
Although the National Land Commission was brought back in October 2024, it made little progress. Amnesty says the government must act quickly to protect the housing rights of those in need.
Climate Crisis Hits Hard
Nepal also struggled with natural disasters in 2023. Heavy rains in June and September caused flash floods and landslides. These disasters killed more than 300 people in Kathmandu and nearby areas. Many homes and roads were destroyed.
Experts from the World Weather Attribution group linked these events to both rapid urbanization and climate change. They say Nepal must improve disaster planning and reduce environmental risks.
A Broader Call for Action
Amnesty International’s full report covers many areas, including:
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Freedom of expression
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Right to protest
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Police abuse
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Women’s rights
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LGBTI rights
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Discrimination based on caste
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Land rights and forced evictions
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Environmental justice
The group calls on the government of Nepal to take urgent action. This includes ending police abuse, protecting freedom of speech, and enforcing anti-discrimination laws. It also recommends stronger steps to address violence against women and ensure equal rights for all people.
Closing Thoughts
Nepal’s human rights record in 2023 shows many troubling signs. From crackdowns on protests to violence against women and Dalits, the country is facing serious problems. If these issues are not addressed, they could harm the country’s democratic progress and social harmony.
Amnesty’s report is a wake-up call for leaders and citizens alike. Protecting rights and freedoms must be a top priority in 2024 and beyond.
