Women human rights defenders in Karnali Province have raised concerns over the discrimination, social rejection, threats, and state-level neglect they face. At the provincial-level human rights defenders’ orientation program organized by INSEC on June 9-10, 2025, in Surkhet, participating defenders demanded assurances of their security and acknowledgment from the state.
Human Rights Defender Tulsi Giri shared that she has faced humiliation, threats, and social exclusion for raising her voice against incidents of violence against women, child marriage, rape, and domestic violence at the local level. She stated that they stand with the victims, but society, and sometimes the accused and influential individuals go against them. She also noted that, as a woman, she experiences greater disrespect.
Similarly, LGBTIQ rights activist Anjali BC complained that while working for the LGBTQ community, she faced not only social isolation but also neglect and discrimination from the police and government agencies. She stated that when they raise issues of sexual rights, the concerned authorities dismiss them. She added that they often face derogatory remarks when they visit government agencies to file complaints. She also demanded psychological support, training, and legal knowledge for human rights defenders.
Mina Budhathoki, a rights activist from Salyan, mentioned that while working against domestic violence and polygamy, she faced social exclusion and character assassination. She added that at times, the offenders even come to her home to threaten her and no one pays attention to their security. Narayan Subedi, INSEC Karnali Province Coordinator, stated that although human rights defenders are an important part of democracy, the government has not provided them with necessary security, facilitation, and support. He said, “The state must acknowledge human rights defenders and create a safe environment for their work.”
Madan Paudel, Chief of the Human Rights Documentation Department at INSEC emphasized that human rights defenders must maintain to necessary standards while investigating and advocating against human rights violations.
Uttam Gautam, Under Secretary of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Law stated that the Human Rights Defenders Protection and Security Bill has completed all procedures and has been submitted to the Cabinet. He added that once the bill is enacted, it will help provide protection and security to human rights defenders.
Other defenders participating in the program raised several concerns, including challenges related to security, discriminatory social attitudes, lack of training and information, increased family responsibilities without support, limited access to legal institutions, and financial, resource, and geographical constraints.
Jagatdal Janala BK