We are sensitive to the issue of human rights

The Local Government Operation Act, 2017 has granted local governments the authority to work on various issues related to human rights, alongside judicial committees, for the administration of justice. An edited excerpt from a conversation between INSEC Bhaktapur representative Jamuna Bhattrai and the Deputy Mayor of Suryabinayak Municipality, Sarita Timilsina Bhattarai, regarding how these rights have been utilised.

What is your view on the legal system for being the chief of the judicial committee of the local government? What kinds of problems arise in the judicial committee?

This is a very important matter as it keeps the community and the elected representatives always together. We, as elected representatives, have a responsibility towards society. Many issues are resolved through reconciliation. According to Article 217 of the Constitution and Sections 47(1) and 47(2) of the Local Government Operation Act, we send both parties to a reconciliation where both sides win. Decisions are made in favor of the victim. There are not many disputes. We are working on human development alongside infrastructure development. We have worked on raising awareness with both women and men. Serious incidents are rare. We are working at a fast pace to make our municipality child-friendly by the year 2026.

How much discussion do you have in creating laws that marginalized individuals, such as women, children, and persons with disabilities, can embrace?

We have made efforts to address the voices raised on issues concerning women, children, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, Dalits, senior citizens, Madhesi, Muslims, sexual and gender minorities, and people with disabilities. We have serious discussions on such topics and also draw necessary conclusions. We are also discussing issues related to marginalized communities, and we believe that the questions we raise and the laws needed by the people can be brought in a sensitive and accessible manner.

What is the status of education, health, housing, environment, and food rights in this municipality?

We have prioritized education and health sectors and have been working more in these areas. We are determined to improve the level of schools. The number of students is also increasing. All the schools are now well-equipped. Teachers are skilled and teaching with the help of projectors. We have ensured the availability of sanitary pads in every community school, making them safe and dignified. This municipality has made significant progress, particularly in education, health, employment, development, and the capacity building of women and children. Whether community or private, students here are dedicated to quality education, which eliminates the need to go outside for studies. To ensure easy access to health services, we have set up well-equipped health posts in every ward. We are developing infrastructure while keeping in mind the basic needs of the municipality’s citizens, such as drinking water, drainage, roads, sanitation, education, and the rights and needs of youth, women, and children.”

Human rights, fundamental rights, and laws, as well as what types of targeted programs are planned?

The topic you have raised is extremely important. We are sensitive to the issue of human rights. We have given special attention to women’s empowerment and youth-targeted programs, allocating a significant budget for these areas. We are working accordingly. We believe that without economic empowerment, no other empowerment is possible, so we are linking women with income generation, self-employment, and skill-based training. Previously, short-term training was provided, but now we are offering longer-term training of three to six months to make women capable and skilled for employment. Most incidents of violence are due to financial constraints. Therefore, we have arranged skill development and training programs targeted at women for income generation.