Minister highlights constitutional rights for indigenous communities at UN forum

KATHMANDU: At the 24th session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) held in New York, Nepal’s Minister for Federal Affairs and General Administration, Rajkumar Gupta, emphasized that the constitution of Nepal guarantees sufficient rights to indigenous communities.

Minister Gupta, speaking at the forum, shared that Nepal’s constitutional provisions ensure rights for indigenous groups, including proportional representation and reservation systems.

This has led to an increase in indigenous representation in both political and administrative sectors of the country, as reported by Kali Prasad Parajuli, spokesperson for the Ministry of General Administration.

Gupta also highlighted that Nepal’s adoption of the principles outlined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples plays a crucial role in promoting justice, equality, and recognition for these communities.

He stressed that these principles provide the foundation for ensuring social justice and equality in development.

The Minister further elaborated on Nepal’s commitment to inclusive development through the 16th periodic plan, which focuses on the empowerment and inclusion of indigenous groups. Gupta noted the provision of education in indigenous children’s native languages and emphasized Nepal’s legal protections for the land and community ownership rights of indigenous groups.

Gupta also acknowledged challenges in providing health, education, decent work, and economic opportunities to indigenous people, despite significant progress in promoting their rights.

He called on the international community to increase investments in these areas and support efforts for the cultural preservation and promotion of indigenous communities.

Reaffirming Nepal’s commitment to the protection of indigenous rights, Minister Gupta expressed readiness to collaborate with the UN and global partners to ensure the dignity, welfare, and empowerment of indigenous communities.

He urged continued cooperation to advance the progress and bright future of all indigenous groups.