Nepal Government’s Actions Undermine Federalism, Secularism, and Democracy, Says Congress Leader

Congress parliamentary party leader Bhisma Raj Aangdembe has stated that the government’s recent activities and expressions are directed towards weakening federalism, secularism, inclusivity, and democratic republicanism.

Issuing a message of best wishes on the occasion of International Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Aangdembe said that the achievements gained through the long struggles of the people cannot be undermined. ‘Nepal’s constitution has institutionalized federalism, secularism, proportional inclusion, social justice, and identity and cultural rights. These achievements were not obtained through anyone’s mercy or kindness,’ he said, ‘but through the long struggles of the indigenous peoples and all communities of the Nepali people.’

Aangdembe expressed concern that the government’s recent activities and expressions are weakening federalism, secularism, inclusivity, and democratic republicanism instead of strengthening them. He emphasized that while the weaknesses and problems of the constitution can be corrected through amendments and revisions, the achievements of federalism, secularism, inclusivity, and democratic republicanism should not be undermined.

Aangdembe stressed that the constitution has institutionalized federalism, secularism, proportional inclusion, social justice, and identity and cultural rights, and these achievements were gained through the long struggles of the indigenous peoples and the Nepali people. He emphasized the need to ensure the identity, language, culture, and rights of indigenous peoples in practice.

Furthermore, Aangdembe called for the institutionalization of federalism with fair representation and recognition at all levels of the state. He noted that International Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an opportunity to remember the struggles, sacrifices, and contributions made by indigenous peoples for their history, identity, language, culture, and rights.

Aangdembe appealed for a commitment to implementing the pledge to build an inclusive, equal, and just Nepal.