MP's urge action to address problem of landless

 Kathmandu, Aug.1: Members of Parliament have called for better management of landless people after a disaster. 

Speaking at a discussion program jointly organized by Jagriti Child and Youth Concern, Nepal held here, MPs focused on the issue of landlessness following disasters. 

Chairperson of (DPNet) Dr Raju Thapa said that there need for risk-sensitive land use. 

He noted that different types of disasters are being witnessed and emphasized the importance of awareness in every area. 

Chairperson of Jagriti Child and Youth Concern Nepal, Tilottam Paudel, called for special attention to the education, health, protection, and rehabilitation of vulnerable groups  such as women, children, sexual and gender minorities, differently abled people, pregnant and postpartum women, and senior citizens, who are affected by disaster.

He emphasized that risk grounds need to be put in the center while making laws related to disaster and climate governance, and to pay attention while making laws regarding landless squatters. 

He said that the long-term rehabilitation of affected individuals is a pressing challenge requiring coordinated efforts. 

Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Land Management, Cooperatives, and Poverty Alleviation, Ganesh Bhatt, said that land use must be determined by risk factors. 

He said that the government's responsibility is to manage land for the landless, squatters, and informal settlers.s 

He said, "No land measurement has taken place in Terai for a long time. Land around public rivulets, rivers, and river banks is prohibited from being sold. However, land occupied since Magh 28, 2066 BS (February 11, 2010) may be eligible under the proposed bill. The bill also aims to relocate people from high-risk areas.

Surya Bahadur Thapa, former Chairperson of (DPNet), said that Nepal is highly disaster-prone and that attention must be given not only to rescue and relief but also to long-term solutions.

Member of Parliament (MP) Rana Kumari Balampaki Magar emphasized the need for sensitivity in resolving issues of landlessness. 

MP Ranju Jha noted that recent floods and landslides have increased the number of victims, forcing many to live in hardship. 

Member of Parliament (MP) Surya Dhakal mentioned that 55 MPs have signed amendments to the land bill.

He added that new types of disasters are pushing more people into landlessness. 

He said, “Even the country has made people landless. After declaring buffer zones up to seven kilometers from national parks, more people have lost land. We believe this bill will solve the problems of landless and squatters.” 

MP Harkamaya Bishwakarma pointed out that squatters living along riverbanks are at the highest risk and should be relocated to safer areas through proper classification. 

National Assembly Member Garima Shah stressed the importance of educating the younger generation about disaster management and awareness. 

She noted that disasters are turning citizens into refugees within their own country and called for long-term solutions.