The monitoring team of the Social Welfare Council conducted an inspection of the human rights program being implemented by the Informal Sector Service Centre (INSEC) in Gandaki Province and held an interaction with stakeholders in Pokhara on April 20. The monitoring team, led by Dr. Mukti Rijal, included Council representatives Bimala Luitel, Chartered Accountant Bishal Baral, INSEC Bagmati Province Coordinator Shiva Khakurel, and INSEC Gandaki Province Documentation Officer Mangita Nepali, among others.
During the monitoring process, the team gathered information from local administration, civil society, and human rights defenders regarding the effectiveness, coordination, and implementation status of the project.
In a meeting held at the District Administration Office, Kaski, Chief District Officer Rudradevi Sharma stated that INSEC has played an important role alongside the administration in maintaining peace and security in the district and in the protection of human rights. She noted that only when all bodies honestly fulfill their respective responsibilities can social problems be resolved.
According to Sharma, Pokhara, which is also the capital of Gandaki Province, faces a higher population pressure and greater administrative responsibilities. Cases of violence against women, violations of child rights, and domestic violence still remain challenges. She informed that coordination is being maintained among the administration, judicial committees, social organizations, and INSEC to ensure justice for victims of such incidents.
During the discussion, representatives of civil society noted that INSEC has played an effective role in the protection of human rights. They stated that INSEC’s programs have made an important contribution in providing relief to victims, facilitating the flow of information, and raising public awareness. They also suggested that the program should be further strengthened based on past experiences.
Human rights activist Keshu Bhujel said that INSEC has been continuously playing a role in drawing the attention of concerned stakeholders in the field of human rights. He emphasized the need to focus on advocating for legal reforms, strengthening advocacy efforts, and ensuring the effective implementation of human rights.
Similarly, Juna K.C. of the Single Women’s Group shared her experience that victims have received relief with the support of INSEC. According to her, INSEC has acted in the role of a guardian, providing necessary assistance to victims through cooperation and coordination.
Coordinator of NIOC Gandaki Province, Bishnu Baral, stated during the discussion that emphasis was also placed on strengthening the rule of law and constitutional governance. He added that stakeholders should come together to work impartially, rising above political influence.
Bina Silwal of Kopila Nepal mentioned that INSEC has been playing an important role in the field of human rights. She discussed with the Social Welfare Council the need to minimize legal and administrative obstacles faced in various activities of non-governmental organizations and to create a more enabling environment.
During the discussion, participants stressed the need to further strengthen cooperation between civil society, government bodies, and INSEC for the protection of human rights. They particularly emphasized prioritizing programs focused on women’s rights, child rights, and social justice.
