Government Orders Squatters Out of Holding Centers, Drawing Criticism Over Treatment of Displaced Families

Kathmandu – The government has decided to remove landless squatters currently living in temporary holding centers. Authorities have instructed residents to vacate the facilities after receiving the support and benefits promised by the government.

Many of the families had been relocated to the holding centers after settlements built on public land and riverbanks were cleared through eviction drives. At the time, the government had arranged temporary accommodation for the displaced residents. They have now been given a five-day deadline to leave those facilities as well.

Under the directive, all residents currently staying in the holding centers must make their own housing arrangements and vacate the premises by June 26.

The government had previously announced financial assistance for the displaced families, including a one-time payment of NPR 25,000 to help secure housing, followed by a monthly allowance of NPR 15,000.

Authorities have instructed residents to accept the assistance and vacate the holding centers within the specified timeframe.

According to available figures, 388 households are currently residing across the holding centers.