A law has been enacted in Lumbini Province to provide food supplies at subsidized rates to economically disadvantaged Dalit households. The provision is included in the Dalit Rights Act introduced by the Lumbini Provincial Government.
According to the Act, such assistance will be provided on the basis of a Food Assistance Identity Card. The law also stipulates proportional representation of Dalit women, Madhesi Dalit women, economically disadvantaged Dalits, and other Dalit communities in all provincial government bodies and structures under the provincial government.
The Act further provides for housing arrangements, in accordance with existing laws, for homeless individuals and families from the Dalit community. It also guarantees compulsory and free education, including scholarships, for Dalit students. Additionally, at least 18 percent of seats in school and university hostels must be reserved for Dalit students.
The law also mandates that at least 15 percent of student seats be allocated to Dalit students, provides grants and concessional loans to preserve traditional Dalit occupations, and calls for the formation of a Dalit Rights Development Committee and Local Dalit Development Committees to safeguard and promote the rights of Dalit communities.
According to Yam Bahadur Nepali, Chairperson of the Social Development Committee of the Lumbini Provincial Assembly, the enactment of the law sends a positive and progressive message within the province.
He stated that, with the Act now in place, preparations are underway to formulate the necessary regulations and move toward implementation. “The Act has been passed. This is a new initiative that we have undertaken ahead of other provinces,” he said. “We expect budget allocations for the coming fiscal year, and we plan to draft the regulations and begin implementation accordingly.”
He further described the legislation as an innovative and pioneering practice for Lumbini Province.