Kathmandu, November 5
The Ministry of Women, Children, Gender and Sexual Minorities and Social Security has urged the public not to engage in caste-based discrimination or untouchability during the Chhath festival and to ensure equal participation of all communities.
Issuing a statement, the ministry drew the attention of all concerned to discriminatory practices such as constructing or arranging separate Chhath ghats for members of the Dalit community.
Stating that Chhath is a festival that symbolises religious, social and cultural harmony, the ministry expressed confidence that it would strengthen mutual understanding, brotherhood and national unity. It urged all concerned to refrain from activities that discriminate against people based on caste, class or community.
Referring to Article 18 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to equality, and Article 24, which guarantees the right against untouchability and discrimination, the ministry reminded the public that caste-based untouchability and discrimination are punishable offences under the Caste-Based Discrimination and Untouchability (Offence and Punishment) Act, 2011.
The ministry stated that prohibiting entry to public places, constructing separate ghats on the basis of caste or segregating any community would violate the spirit of the Constitution, the principle of equality and existing legal provisions.
It called on local governments, security agencies, civil society, journalists and all citizens to play a responsible role in preventing such discriminatory practices.
Reaffirming its commitment to building an equitable society that ensures equal rights, dignity and inclusive participation for people of all castes, classes, regions and communities, the ministry also urged the public to promote social harmony, brotherhood and an inclusive culture.
